I am weathering a very bad depressive episode at the moment. The worst of it is the dark inner voice, like a demon. I think I will counter this with sending myself unconditional self-acceptance, although it is very hard. I don't think I could send "I love you's" to myself. So there is heart of the problem, just as you stated. I have used mantras successfully but don't have the energy to chant right now. But I could youtube some to listen to, so thank you Skeez for this suggestion.