'When people move from a sense of uncontrollability to the belief that maybe there's something they can do about their situation, such as apologising or making amends for their actions, it starts increasing a sense of hope for the future,' she said.

The second step to overcoming shame, she said, is to make connections - with family or friends or a higher power or humanity at large. 'Connecting to others helps to increase self-acceptance, and with self-acceptance can come a greater acceptance of other people as well.

'People start to realise that it is not just them. Other people do things that are as bad or even worse sometimes so they're not the worst person on the planet. They start to say to themselves: 'This is human, I am human, others are human'.'

The researcher said: 'Shame can prompt us to make changes that will help protect our relationships and also preserve the fabric of society. It is important to emphasise that shame is essential and has value.' The study has been published in the British Psychological Society journal Psychology and Psychotherapy: Theory, Research, and Practice.