It can be tough to say nice things to ourselves when feeling down, but as you say, changing our way of communicating with ourselves, giving focused attention to that which feels good and doing it with consistent deliberation can actually help us find appreciation for ourselves again. It may not be a complete answer, but can be a very integral part of healing.

I'm grateful to contribute to things that can make a difference in people's lives. Building community really is a benefit to us all, as dealing with life really is much more juicy and rewarding when supported and doing it together.