Self-Help Strategies

A number of other strategies are available to help manage, and even minimize, depressive episodes. For example, sufferers can:

Keep a journal. Factors that contribute to mood disorders include poor sleep habits, vitamin deficiencies, stress, chronic illnesses and social isolation. Carefully keeping track of activities, eating habits and overall health can help determine possible contributing factors to depression.

Avoid unhealthy habits. Alcohol, over-the-counter or prescription medications, illegal substances and even food are ineffective, harmful methods of "self-medicating." Abusing such substances can lead to other health problems, increase or decrease the effects of prescribed medications or lead to serious drug interactions. In fact, in people who are not clinically depressed, drugs and alcohol can sufficiently alter the body's chemistry to bring about depression.

Heed the warning signs. As with other chronic illnesses, such as diabetes or asthma, depression sufferers should consider themselves "manager" over their illness. A depressed person's own experience with previous episodes offers an edge to recognizing symptoms and getting help.

Join a support group. Such groups are a source of emotional support, acceptance and encouragement. Group members share personal experiences as well as practical tips for managing depression.