I'm Embarrassed About Feeling Depressed: What Should I Do?

Depression is complicated enough on its own. But when you add feelings of embarrassment or shame into the mix, it becomes even harder. 

If you’ve ever thought, “I should be stronger than this,” or “What’s wrong with me,” you’re not alone. Many people feel the same way. The most encouraging news? There’s tons of hope in working with our mental health specialists. 

There’s nothing weak or wrong about feeling depressed. It’s a common, treatable condition that affects people from all walks of life. And those uncomfortable emotions, like embarrassment or guilt, are often part of the illness.

Join our team of experts at Leading MDs as we compassionately and thoroughly help you navigate the mental health domino effect of depression.

Why am I embarrassed about my depression?

There are many reasons someone might feel ashamed about being depressed:

Stigma

One of the primary culprits is stigma. Society has long sent the message that mental health struggles are a sign of weakness or failure. Even though awareness is improving, those old beliefs often remain.

Comparison

You might also be stuck in a cycle of comparison. When you look around and it seems like everyone else has it all together, it’s easy to wonder why you feel so low.

Expectations from friends and family

Many of our patients struggle with expectations from friends and family. Maybe you’re used to being the strong one. Or perhaps you were raised to push through pain without talking about it. All of these expectations put incredible pressure on a person with depression.

Faulty thought process 

Depression can also twist your thinking, making you feel like a burden or like your feelings don’t matter.

These reactions and feelings are typical, but they don’t have to control your next steps. 

Depression is a health condition, not a failure

Would you be embarrassed to see a doctor for high blood pressure or a broken bone? Probably not. Depression is no different. 

It’s a real medical condition that affects your brain chemistry, energy levels, and ability to function. It’s not something you can just “snap out of.” And it doesn’t reflect your character, strength, value, or faith. 

If you're feeling embarrassed about being depressed, here's a gentle guide to what you can do next. 

Acknowledge your feelings without judgment

First, permit yourself to feel what you feel. Don’t try to shame yourself out of your sadness, and don’t pretend it’s not there. Emotions aren’t right or wrong — they just are.

Try telling yourself: “I’m having a hard time right now. That doesn’t make me weak. It makes me human.”

Talk to someone you trust

Speaking up can be incredibly healing, whether with a friend, family member, faith leader, or therapist. You don’t have to pour out your whole heart right away. Something simple like, “I’ve been feeling low lately,” can open the door.

You might be surprised by how many people respond compassionately and share their stories.

Reach out to a professional

Depression is treatable. You don’t have to suffer silently or try to fix it all yourself. Our team has experienced mental health experts who can assess your symptoms, rule out physical causes, and guide you toward the proper treatment, whether therapy, medication, lifestyle support, or all of the above.

Sometimes, just knowing you have a plan can bring enormous relief.

Challenge the shame

Remember that embarrassment often comes from beliefs that aren’t true. Challenge those thoughts:

“I’m the only one who feels like this.” False. Millions of people experience depression every year. 

“I shouldn’t feel this way. I have a good life.” Depression doesn’t care how “good” things look on paper. Anyone can experience depression at any stage of life.

“Getting help means I’ve failed.” Actually, it means you’re taking control and caring for yourself.

The more you question those thoughts, the less power they’ll have.

Take small, supportive steps

When you’re depressed, even the smallest tasks can feel huge. Be gentle with yourself and focus on small steps:

• Take a short walk
• Eat something nourishing
• Practice breathing, meditation, or prayer
• Take up journaling or a new hobby
• Listen to music that lifts you up
• Make that doctor’s appointment you’ve been putting off
• Accomplish something on your to-do list (we know you have one)
• Spend time with loved ones

Every step and every effort counts — even the ones that feel insignificant.

The bottom line

Depression doesn’t define you. It’s something you’re going through, not something you are. And feeling embarrassed about it doesn’t mean you’re weak. It just means you’ve been carrying something heavy alone.

But you don’t have to carry it alone. Help is available. Healing is possible. And you deserve to feel better, not just “functioning,” but truly well.

If you’re struggling with depression, we’re here to help — call (623)295-1190 to request a consultation with our Leading MDs specialists. We proudly serve communities in and around Goodyear, Mesa, and Sun City, Arizona.