Introduction
Many of us are kinder to others than to ourselves. Self-compassion — treating yourself with the same kindness you’d offer a friend — is a powerful tool for mental well-being.
Why Self-Compassion Matters
Helps reduce anxiety, depression, and self-criticism
Promotes emotional resilience and better stress response
Encourages growth mindset and healthier motivation
Three Components of Self-Compassion (Dr. Kristin Neff’s model)
Self-kindness vs. Self-judgment
Common humanity vs. Isolation
Mindfulness vs. Over-identification
Practical Exercises
Self-compassion break: Acknowledge your pain, recognize common humanity, then offer yourself kindness
Letter to yourself: Write a supportive letter as if to a friend
Guided meditations: Many apps provide self-compassion meditations
Integrating into Therapy
In therapy sessions, therapists can help clients reframe harsh self-talk, explore roots of perfectionism, and build compassionate internal voices.
Conclusion
Developing self-compassion is an ongoing process. It’s not about ignoring mistakes — but about treating yourself with humanity, gentleness, and understanding. If you’d like support, PsychDoc therapists are equipped to guide you.
