Hello MatBell. I am so sorry that you are struggling with depression. I live with it too. You may have been born with a predisposition to experience depression. I was...genetic factors from both parents and raised in dysfunctional family in a very pessimistic place. And yes, frequent negative thoughts increase the likelihood of more negative thoughts thus depression often feels like a cycle. However, there is GOOD news!

You can re-program your brain to notice and focus more on positives. You can make a practice of flipping negative thoughts which also becomes habit and increases the likelihood of more positive thoughts! That's what I work on. There is a lot of research out there on positive psychology and how to actively work on building or improving "happiness skills."

Here are a few ideas for you:

- have you tried therapy? It has really helped me.
- guided meditation (see YouTube videos) on positive thinking, peace, joy etc
- Netflix documentary called 'Happy' which breaks down the research and gives practical steps for everyone to increase their own happiness level
- 52 Lists for Happiness weekly journal (check it out online...mine really helps me to feel happier each day)
- consider the mind-body connection: how's your physical health? Sleep, nutrition etc
- practice gratitude each day: one study suggested that individuals who take time to write down 5 things for which they are grateful for each day (big or small) can increase their happiness level over time by ~ 25%
- before sleep, write down 3 positives about yourself and read the list first thing in the morning before you even get out of bed...keep adding to the list and re-reading to retrain your brain to focus on positive thoughts.

These are all strategies I use. I find that they really help.

Wishing you a peaceful present and a bright future!