Does Depression Cause a Person to Become Self-Sabotaging?

Self-sabotaging behaviors refer to those in which an individual makes a decision or acts on a compulsion to engage in self-destructive behaviors that get in the way of an individual’s daily life and long-standing goals.1 Usually, a fear of failure or low self-esteem may live at the root of this compulsion to self-sabotage.2 Because common physical symptoms of depression include negative thought patterns, low self-esteem, self-harm and low self-worth, self-sabotaging and depression tend to go hand-in-hand. When an individual is struggling with depression, he or she may struggle with self-worth, isolate from friends, breakup with a loved one, or place themselves in a position to be harmed, to then validate the narrative of self-worth.

Depression is a mental health condition that has both neurological bases and scientific background. An individual struggling with depression may or may not even be aware of the self-destructive behaviors as they come up–when one is depressed, he or she may be caught in a negative narrative about oneself–and then these self-destructive behaviors reaffirm the cycle of negative self-talk.

AMFM Mental Health Treatment has over a decade of experience utilizing cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and holistic mental health treatment to help clients overcome depression. If you or a loved one are struggling with self-sabotaging, self-destructive or impulsive behaviors in relation to depression, our compassionate care team is here to help you take the first step to lasting wellness. Reach out today to learn new coping mechanisms through comprehensive depression treatment.

depression and sabotage

Depression Symptoms and Self-Sabotage

Typical self-sabotage can include procrastination and perfectionism. The idea that someone struggling cannot do something out of the fear of failure or the idea that they will not be good enough can stop an individual struggling with depression from reaching out and fostering further connection with other human beings. The lack of connection can then lead to further isolation, and the negative consequences go on in a cyclical fashion.

The overlap of similar symptoms of depression and self-sabotaging behaviors can include:

  • Low self-worth
  • Self-harm
  • Feelings of worthlessness
  • Negative self-talk
  • Destructive behavior
  • Loss of interest in activities or relationships
  • Low self-esteem
  • Procrastination and fear of failure


When an individual is struggling with the negative physical symptoms of depressive disorder, it can be more difficult than usual to break out of the habit of engaging in self-sabotaging behaviors. However, with the help of a mental health treatment program, you or your loved one can learn new behavioral strategies and coping mechanisms for a future of greater mental well-being.

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Recognizing and Avoiding Self-Destructive Behaviors

The first step to overcoming self-destructive behaviors is to recognize the feelings of fear, worthlessness and helplessness that motivate these behaviors. By reaching out to mental health professionals, individuals living with depression can gain access to resources like the therapeutic modalities of CBT, DBT and more. Incorporating psychotherapy, sometimes supplemented with antidepressants, offers these individuals the opportunity to not only recognize their triggers for engaging in self-sabotage, but also offers relief from the feelings of worthlessness and low self-esteem from depression.

A mental health treatment program for depression also usually provides group therapy, or support groups, which can help people understand that they are not alone in both the general symptoms of depression, but also in the desire to act on self-destructive impulses and compulsions. These support groups help provide a context for long-term recovery, and set depressed individuals up for success. If you or your loved one are struggling with depression and self-sabotage, don’t hesitate to call to learn more about AMFM’s mental health treatment today.

Psychiatric Treatment for Depression

Psychiatry and pharmacology play an important role in depression treatment; there are a variety of different antidepressant medications that have been proven as effective treatment (in combination with psychological treatment) for depression. Some types of antidepressants are listed here, but inquire with a licensed medical professional or psychiatrist for detailed information on different treatments. Never take psychiatric medication unless it is prescribed to you, and be sure to consult with medical professionals in case of external risk factors. 

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) and Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs) are antidepressant medications that treat different neurotransmitters in order to block the reabsorption of serotonin or norepinephrine, keeping more of the chemicals in the synaptic cleft. Both are effective treatments for depression, but depend upon the individual, and should be approached with medical guidance and professional advice.

Perforated St-John’s Wort is also known as an over-the-counter medication to help treat mild to moderate depression, but can cause side effects, particularly in combination with other medications. If you’re currently on medications for any other medical conditions, it’s important to review any over-the-counter medications and their interactions with a medical professional. Click here to learn more about the importance of medication management

Does Health Insurance Cover Treatment for Depression?

Yes, most health insurance companies provide some form of coverage for depression treatment. This often includes both inpatient and outpatient care, depending on your symptoms. Coverage generally applies to therapy, counseling, and medication management services. Your plan may have limitations, exclusions, or required authorizations.

We encourage you to verify your coverage with AMFM Mental Health Treatment to understand the full scope of your benefits. This is especially true if you’re looking for specific treatments, like postpartum depression treatments or persistent depressive disorder treatment options.

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Insurance Verification:

Our team will verify if your insurance provider is in-network with an AMFM Healthcare Facility.

Contact From Admission Representative:

Expect a call within an hour from an admissions representative to discuss treatment options.

By submitting this form you agree to the terms of use and privacy policy and give my express written consent for AMFM Healthcare to contact me at the number provided above, even if this number is a wireless number or if I am presently listed on a Do Not Call list.

I understand that I may be contacted by telephone, email, text message or mail regarding my disability benefit case options and that I may be called using automatic dialing equipment. Message and data rates may apply. My consent does not require purchase. Message frequency varies. Text HELP for help. Reply STOP to unsubscribe.

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Types of Treatment for Depression and Self-Sabotage

If you are looking for mental health treatment for Major Depressive Disorder, you have a few different levels of care to consider. Because depression looks different for everyone, there is no one-size-fits-all for mental health care. AMFM Mental Health Treatment provides Residential, IOP and PHP options.

Inpatient/Residential Treatment

Residential mental health facilities are designed to offer mental health resources, structure, and treatment plans to those struggling with a variety of mental health conditions in a live-in environment. Because these are inpatient behavioral health programs, they offer a more holistic and hands-on, in-person treatment approach with 24/7 access to health care and personalized treatment plans. Our Residential Facilities have qualified clinicians on staff, to provide medication management, therapeutic programming, and the highest level of care.

Intensive Outpatient Programming (IOP)

Intensive Outpatient Mental Health Treatment is a form of treatment designed to help those with mental health conditions through a combination of group and individual therapy. Qualified mental health professionals lead clients through behavioral health programming, providing personalized treatment plans, evidence-based programs, and psychoeducation resources. IOP programs provide comprehensive mental health treatment and thorough access to health care, but at a more flexible schedule. AMFM Mental Health Treatment offers outpatient programs with both in-person and virtual treatment options to meet your unique needs.

Partial Hospitalization Programming (PHP)

PHP is a type of mental health program designed to help those struggling with mental health issues through a combination of group and individual therapy, to improve well-being. Qualified mental health professionals lead clients through behavioral health programming, providing personalized treatment plans, evidence-based programs, and psychoeducation resources. PHP programs provide comprehensive mental health treatment and thorough access to health care, but at a more flexible schedule. Unlike inpatient residential treatment, the partial hospitalization program option only takes place during the day, allowing clients to return home at night and on the weekends, with less disruption to your daily life. This level of care may be helpful for those continuing studies or work in the evenings or on the weekends. AMFM Mental Health Treatment offers PHP with both in-person and virtual treatment options to meet your unique needs.

Types of Therapy for Depression

Depression can affect individuals differently, which often requires individualized treatment. There are a variety of depression treatment options that can be used to address the emotional, cognitive, and behavioral aspects of this condition. Some of the most common psychotherapy modalities used in depression counseling sessions include:

Family or Couples Therapy

Couples and family therapy may be used when a loved one’s depressive symptoms are affecting others. Support groups for family members can increase everyone’s understanding of depression and provide resources for growth. Couples and family therapy sessions can improve communication patterns, focus on problem-solving, address unresolved conflicts, and increase the sense of understanding among one another. 

Group Therapy

Group therapy sessions can be used to help provide structured times to help you understand that you are not alone in your struggles, that your peers are also walking through these challenges, while also providing guidance, suggestions and communications from psychologists with specialized backgrounds. These groups can span a variety of backgrounds, including but not limited to art therapy, somatic therapy, and narrative therapy.3

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a form of therapy that’s focused on restructuring and reprogramming maladaptive and negative thought processes. Psychologists are trained to help you change your cognitive and emotional processes in order to outgrow coping mechanisms that may no longer be serving you.4 

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is most commonly referred to as “talk therapy,” and is designed to help process emotions. Qualified professionals offer psychological therapy to move forward with healthy ways of engaging in interpersonal relationships and alleviating physical and emotional distress.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR)

EMDR Therapy is a renowned method of reprocessing most often used in trauma therapy. By activating the prefrontal cortex through a series of bilateral stimulation, qualified professionals can lead you through traumatic experiences, helping you to alleviate the distress symptomized by trauma.5

Additional Mental Health Illnesses for Treatment

AMFM Mental Health Treatment has extensive experience treating a variety of mental health disorders–through evidence-based therapies, support groups, mental health resources and more–including but not limited to the following:

  • Anxiety Disorders
  • Eating Disorders
  • Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) 
  • Crisis & Traumatic Events
  • ADHD
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Mood Disorders
  • Personality Disorders
  • Psychosis 
  • Phobias
  • Schizophrenia
  • Panic Attacks

Recovery can feel isolating; mental health programming can provide treatment options and cohesive plans to help you or your loved one as you move forward.

Sussex Publishers. (n.d.). Self-sabotage. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/self-sabotage 

Rosner, S., & Hermes, P. (2006). The self-sabotage cycle: Why we repeat behaviors that create hardships and ruin relationships. Praeger Publishers/Greenwood Publishing Group.

 “Psychotherapy: Understanding group therapy.” American Psychological Association, 31 October 2019, https://www.apa.org/topics/psychotherapy/group-therapy. Accessed 20 February 2025.

 “APA Dictionary of Psychology.” APA Dictionary of Psychology, https://dictionary.apa.org/cognitive-behavior-therapy. Accessed 20 February 2025.

 “What is EMDR?” EMDR Institute, https://www.emdr.com/what-is-emdr/. Accessed 20 February 2025.