Coping With Depression/TIPS

• Set realistic goals in light of the depression and assume a reasonable amount of responsibility.
• Break large tasks into small ones, set some priorities, and do what you can as you can.
• Try to be with other people and to confide in someone; it is usually better than being alone and secretive.
• Participate in activities that may make you feel better.
• Mild exercise, going to a movie, a ballgame, or participating in religious, social, or other activities may help.
• Expect your mood to improve gradually, not immediately. Feeling better takes time.
• It is advisable to postpone important decisions until the depression has lifted. Before deciding to make a significant transition-change jobs, get married or divorced-discuss it with others who know you well and have a more objective view of your situation.
• People rarely "snap out of" a depression. But they can feel a little better day-by-day.
• Remember, positive thinking will replace the negative thinking that is part of the depression and will disappear as your depression responds to treatment.
• Let your family and friends help you.

I'm printing this list and posting it by my mirror so I see it every time I wake up - thanks!

I turned a corner today. I helped someone and it reminded me of who I am, something I have lost track of recently. My tip would be to reach out to someone who is hurting worse that you are.

One tip that I actually saw on these forums is to do at least one positive thing a day. It can be anything, a chore, some art, anything. I've started to do that and I find it's helping. Doing even just one thing makes me feel like I accomplished something for the day, which can be hard when I'm feeling depressed.

Also remember suicidal thoughts normally don't happen at your low point, but when you are already starting to recover.

* Baby steps. If it seems overwhelming, I break it down into smaller tasks. If those are overwhelming, I break it down again until I have something I can accomplish.
* Suspend judgment. Try not to look at most things as good or bad, especially depression.
* Immerse myself in beauty: nature, music, whatever is beautiful to me.
* Do one thing I would do if I weren't depressed

However, I still have a LOT of trouble functioning when I'm depressed, even small daily tasks are just too much sometimes. So I'd love to hear more tips!

* breathe
It may sound silly, but when you're depressed, you don't do anything for yourself. Take some time to just do some deep breathing and replenish yourself and calm your mind.

My pdoc told me once that they have now proven that even 5 minutes of exercise can treat clinical depression! Sounds doable, no?