Depression Made Me Lose It in FL

EXCLUSIVE

"Buffy the Vampire" star Nicholas Brendon blames his recent string of arrests on a deep depression ... brought on by memories of being sexually abused as a child.

Brendon came on TMZ Live on Monday to explain why he was arrested Friday night in Tallahassee after trashing a hotel room in a drunken rage -- and revealed he's been dealing with his depression by drinking in excess and taking prescription meds.

He admits it's time for a better approach -- and says opening up about being a victim of sexual abuse ... is a start.

Brendon was arrested last February for a similar drunken incident, and in October for allegedly assaulting guests at an Idaho hotel.