What Can You Do About Depression?

Get help. Depression often drains energy, motivation and even the desire for a well life. It's important to remember that weariness and hopelessness are part of the illness.

With proper diagnosis and treatment, more positive feelings will return. In the meantime, these self-help steps may be useful:

• Do not set difficult goals or take on a great deal of responsibility.
• Break large tasks into small ones. Set priorities. Do what you can, as you can.
• Avoid asking too much of yourself. Unrealistic expectations only increase feelings of failure.
• Try to spend time with other people, rather than alone.
• Participate in activities that make you feel better, or might over time. Mild exercise, going to a movie or ball game, or attending religious or social events are a good start.
• Avoid making major life decisions about job changes, marriage or divorce until the depression has lessened and you have a more objective view. Discuss concerns with trusted friends or family members.
• Be kind to yourself. Help yourself as much as you can, and ask others for support.
• Don't blame yourself for negative thinking. Recognize it as a symptom of depression and reach out for help from friends, family, your personal physician and professional counselors.