Depression can feel like an invisible weight, making even the simplest tasks seem overwhelming. If you’re wondering how to deal with depression, you’re taking an important first step—and effective help is available. 

Recovery from depression is entirely possible through a combination of professional treatment, self-care strategies, and support from others. Here, we outline 9 proven strategies that have helped countless people living with depression reclaim their mental well-being. 

1. Understand the Condition: Recognizing Depression’s Impact

Depression is a common and serious mental health condition that affects how you feel, think, and handle daily activities. Globally, depression impacts 5% of the adult population¹ and 13% of adolescents. Also known as major depressive disorder or clinical depression, it can cause persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in activities once enjoyed.

Adolescents can be especially vulnerable to depression due to hormonal changes, academic and social pressures, identity development, and increasing exposure to social media and cyberbullying. For teens, the prevalence of major depressive episodes² was also higher among females at 29.2%.

Dr. Kay Redfield Jamison, a clinical psychologist and professor of psychiatry at Johns Hopkins University who has written extensively about her own experience with bipolar disorder and depression, shares in her memoir An Unquiet Mind:³

Depression is awful beyond words or sounds or images. It bleeds relationships, blanches pleasure, eats memory, peace and self-respect.

While it can be one of the most challenging mental health conditions, when we understand what depression is and other aspects, it can help support long-term and sustained recovery.

2. Assess Personal Risk Factors: Customizing Your Recovery Approach

Depression is a complex mental health condition that can affect individuals of any age, gender, background, or income level. However, certain factors may increase the risk of developing depression:​

• Family history of mental illness or mental health problems: Individuals with a family history of depression or other mental disorders are at a higher risk of experiencing depression themselves. ​
• Chronic medical conditions: Living with chronic illnesses,⁴ such as heart disease, can elevate the likelihood of developing depression.
• Exposure to trauma: Experiencing traumatic events,⁵ especially during childhood, significantly increases the risk of depression.
• Substance use: The misuse of substances⁶ like alcohol and drugs is closely linked to the onset and severity of depression.
  

Understanding these risk factors is crucial for early identification and intervention, which can lead to more effective management and treatment of depression.

How has managing depression—either personally or professionally—shaped your understanding of mental health and well-being?

As a trauma therapist, I’ve learned that depression often isn’t just a chemical imbalance; it’s a nervous system response to overwhelm, loss, or disconnection. Professionally, supporting clients through depression has deepened my belief that healing comes through safety, self-compassion, and co-regulation. It’s taught me to honor slowness and softness as valid forms of strength.

Amanda Stretcher, MA, LPC-S | Crescent Counseling

3. Identify Your Depression Type: Targeting the Right Treatment

There are several types of depression, each with distinct characteristics:

• Major depressive disorder (MDD): Severe symptoms that interfere with daily life. MDD is characterized by a persistently low mood, anhedonia (loss of interest or pleasure), feelings of guilt or worthlessness, fatigue, and other symptoms that impair daily functioning.⁷ Diagnosis requires at least 5 symptoms present most of the day, nearly every day, for a minimum of 2 weeks. It’s one of the leading causes of disability worldwide.
  
• Persistent depressive disorder: Long-term (2 years or more) symptoms that may be less severe but still disabling. This chronic form of depression⁸ involves a depressed mood lasting for at least 2 years in adults (one year in children and adolescents), accompanied by additional depressive symptoms that may not meet the criteria for MDD but still cause significant distress.
  
• Bipolar disorder: Involves episodes of depression⁹ alternating with mania. Bipolar disorder includes episodes of depression alternating with periods of mania or hypomania. The depressive episodes share similarities with MDD, but the presence of manic symptoms distinguishes bipolar disorder from unipolar depression.
  
• Postpartum depression: Occurs after childbirth. This type of depression occurs after childbirth, characterized by sadness, fatigue, changes in sleeping and eating patterns, reduced libido, and crying episodes. It’s more severe and longer-lasting than the “baby blues.”
• Seasonal affective disorder (SAD): Related to changes in seasons, typically starting in the fall or winter. SAD is a subtype of depression¹⁰ that occurs at a specific time of year, usually in the fall or winter, and remits in the spring. Symptoms include low energy, hypersomnia, overeating, weight gain, and craving for carbohydrates.

4. Monitor Your Symptoms: Tracking Progress for Effective Recovery

Persistent Feelings of Sadness or Hopelessness

This isn’t just “feeling down” for a day or 2. It’s a heavy, lingering sadness that doesn’t seem to lift, even when good things happen. You might wake up with a pit in your stomach or go to bed feeling like nothing will ever get better. Hopelessness can feel like your future has disappeared into fog.

Loss of Interest in Hobbies and Activities

Things that once brought you joy—music, cooking, hiking, spending time with friends—start to feel meaningless. You might force yourself to participate, but it feels like going through the motions. It’s not laziness; it’s as if your connection to pleasure has been cut off.

What treatment strategies or coping tools have you found most effective in reducing symptoms of depression and improving day-to-day life?

In order to effectively treat symptoms of depression, evidence-based treatment suggests engaging in behavioral activation. This is activating one’s brain through different activities, specifically geared towards enjoyable, valuable, and routine activities. When someone becomes depressed, there is decreased brain activity, so it is helpful for one to engage different parts of their brain through several types of activities. Will this cure depression? No, but this will help activate the brain into a non-depressed state for a temporary period of time, which, over time, will help to lift one’s mood overall.

Jennifer Chicoine, MA, LCPC | Peaceful Healing Counseling Services

Sleep Problems (Insomnia or Oversleeping)

You might lie awake for hours, exhausted but wired with worry. Or, sleep might become your escape, and even after 10–12 hours, you still feel tired. Either way, it disrupts your rhythm and makes the days feel even harder to face.

Weight Loss or Weight Gain

Your appetite may vanish entirely, or food might become a form of comfort. You may notice clothes fitting differently, but not care enough to do anything about it. These changes can be subtle or dramatic, but they often reflect deeper emotional shifts.

Fatigue or Low Energy

This isn’t just being tired—it’s like your body has run out of fuel. Even small tasks, like taking a shower or replying to a text, can feel overwhelming. It’s frustrating because you want to do more, but the energy simply isn’t there.

Difficulty Concentrating

Reading a book or following a conversation can feel like trying to think through fog. Your brain just won’t focus. You may find yourself rereading the same sentence or zoning out in meetings, which adds to feelings of guilt or inadequacy.

Feelings of Worthlessness or Guilt

You might start believing you’re a burden or that you’ve let everyone down. Even small mistakes can spiral into overwhelming self-criticism. These thoughts don’t come from truth—they come from depression distorting your self-image.

Thoughts of Self-Harm or Suicidal Thoughts

In the darkest moments, depression can convince you that the world would be better off without you. These thoughts are serious and require compassionate, immediate support. You’re not alone, and help is available—even if it’s hard to ask.

These symptoms must last for at least 2 weeks to be considered a depressive episode.
But if you’re experiencing even one or 2 of these symptoms persistently, it’s worth talking to a mental health professional. If you are having thoughts of self-harm or suicidal ideation or thoughts, please reach out for emergency medical care. You are not alone.

The 988 Lifeline is a resource for you at any time of the day, every day of the week.

5. Identify Root Causes: Understanding Depression’s Origins

Depression results from a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. Common causes and risk factors include:

• Imbalances in brain chemicals like serotonin
• Traumatic life events or prolonged stress
• Chronic medical conditions or pain
• Substance use or withdrawal
• Low self-esteem or negative thoughts
• Family history of mental health conditions

What message would you share with someone currently experiencing depression who may feel hopeless or unsure about seeking help?

People often mistake sadness for depression. The capacity to feel sad when experiencing a loss of some kind is emotionally healthy. Sadness, like all emotions, has a rhythm of its own and will pass in time. Depression, however, is emotional constipation, i.e., being numb, detached, and unable to feel sad, and it is very responsive to a ‘laxative’, or treatment, such as psychotherapy. For someone who is unsure about seeking help, the best way to find a good therapist is to start by asking trusted friends and family if there is someone with whom they’ve had a good experience. I recommend that you get a few names and meet with those therapists until you find what feels like a good fit for you.

Avrum Weiss, PhD

6. Seek Proper Diagnosis: Working With Healthcare Professionals

A health care provider or mental health professional diagnoses depression by evaluating your symptoms, personal history, and mental well-being. Tools like the PHQ-9 questionnaire may be used, and blood tests may help rule out underlying medical conditions.

• Self-report questionnaires: These are completed by the individual and ask about the presence and severity of depressive symptoms over a specific period (usually the past 2 weeks).  

• Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9): This is a widely used, brief, 9-item self-report questionnaire. It directly corresponds to the DSM-5 criteria for major depressive disorder. It helps in diagnosing depression, assessing its severity (minimal, mild, moderate, moderately severe, severe), and monitoring treatment response. A score of 10 or higher is often used as a cut-off for indicating clinically significant depression. The PHQ-2, a shorter 2-item version, is often used as an initial screening tool.  
• Beck Depression Inventory (BDI): This 21-item self-report inventory assesses the severity of depressive symptoms. Individuals rate the presence of various symptoms on a 0-3 scale. Higher total scores indicate more severe depression. It’s suitable for individuals aged 13 to 80 and has been validated across various populations.  
• Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D): This 20-item questionnaire was initially designed for use in the general population but is also used in primary care settings to screen for depressive symptoms. It asks about the frequency of symptoms in the past week, rated on a 4-point scale. It can be used for a wide age range, including children.
• Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS): This 10-item self-report questionnaire is specifically designed to screen for depression in women after childbirth. It asks about symptoms experienced in the past week.  
• Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS): This scale is specifically designed for older adults (60 years and over). It is available in different lengths (e.g., 30-item, 15-item, and a shorter 4-item version) and typically uses a yes/no format for responses, making it easier for some older individuals to complete.  
• Clinician-administered rating scales: These scales are administered through structured interviews conducted by a healthcare professional. 

Many behavioral healthcare providers use the DSM-5-TR to provide diagnostic criteria. For example, here is an example of the criteria for major depressive disorder.¹¹

A diagnosis requires the presence of 5 or more of the following symptoms during the same 2-week period, with at least one of the symptoms being either depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure: 

1. Depressed mood most of the day, nearly every day
2. Markedly diminished interest or pleasure in all, or almost all, activities most of the day, nearly every day  
3. Significant weight loss or weight gain (when not dieting or an increase/decrease of more than 5% of body weight in a month), or decrease or increase in appetite nearly every day  
4. Insomnia or hypersomnia nearly every day
5. Psychomotor agitation or retardation nearly every day (observable by others.  
6. Fatigue or loss of energy nearly every day
7. Feelings of worthlessness or excessive or inappropriate guilt nearly every day
8. Diminished ability to think or concentrate, or indecisiveness, nearly every day
9. Recurrent thoughts of death (not just fear of dying), recurrent suicidal ideation without a specific plan, or a suicide attempt or a specific plan for committing suicide.

The symptoms must cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning and not be due to the direct physiological effects of a substance or another medical condition.  

It’s important to note that while these tools are valuable for screening and assessing the severity of depressive symptoms, a diagnosis of depression should always be made by a qualified healthcare professional based on a comprehensive evaluation, including a clinical interview, the individual’s history, and the consideration of other potential medical or psychological conditions.

Screening tools help identify individuals who may need further evaluation and support from a trained medical or treatment professional.

7. Explore Treatment Options: Finding Your Path to Recovery

Psychotherapy (Talk Therapy)

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT is a widely used form of therapy that helps individuals recognize and change negative thought patterns and behaviors. It’s especially effective in treating mild to moderate depression and can prevent relapse. Research supports CBT as one of the most effective interventions for depression.¹²
• Interpersonal therapy (IPT): IPT helps people improve communication and relationships, often disrupted by depression. It focuses on current interpersonal issues like grief, role transitions, or conflicts.
• Behavioral activation: This approach encourages individuals to engage in meaningful activities to increase positive reinforcement and reduce avoidance, a common symptom of depression.

Medication (Antidepressants)

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like fluoxetine and sertraline are commonly prescribed and have been shown to relieve symptoms in people with moderate to severe depression.

The National Institute of Mental Health highlights that antidepressants can take 4-8 weeks to work¹³ and should be closely monitored by a healthcare provider.

Lifestyle Changes and Self-Care

• Regular exercise: Exercise boosts endorphins and supports neurogenesis, or the growth of new brain cells. It can be as effective as medication for mild depression.
• Sleep hygiene: Improving sleep routines can help stabilize mood and reduce depressive symptoms. Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day is a good place to start.
• Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids supports brain health. Some studies suggest that dietary interventions may reduce depressive symptoms.

Social Support

• Group therapy and peer support: Talking with others facing similar struggles can reduce isolation and increase motivation. Group settings also allow for shared coping strategies.
• Family involvement: Involving supportive family members in the recovery process can improve outcomes and ensure a more stable environment.

Advanced and Emerging Treatments

• Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy (MBCT): MBCT combines mindfulness techniques with cognitive therapy to reduce relapse in those with recurrent depression.
• Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS): TMS uses magnetic pulses to stimulate areas of the brain associated with mood regulation. It’s FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression.
• Ketamine and esketamine (Spravato): These medications offer rapid relief of symptoms and are typically used when other treatments haven’t worked. They must be administered under medical supervision.

8. Practice Prevention Strategies: Building Mental Health Resilience

Can I prevent depression?

While you can’t always prevent depression, there are ways to reduce your risk. Building up protective factors can help build resilience for this condition. However, often times, treatment is needed for long-term recovery and positive outcomes.

These are a few healthy coping strategies that you can try:

• Stay connected with a support group or loved ones
• Manage stress through mindfulness¹⁴ or gratitude practices
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and good nutrition
• Seek help early when experiencing symptoms
• Avoid alcohol and drug use, which can worsen mental health
  

With proper treatment and support, most people recover from depression. However, it can be a recurring condition, and managing long-term well-being is key. Early intervention improves outcomes, and ongoing support can help prevent relapse.

9. Develop Daily Management: Living Well Despite Depression

When should I see my healthcare provider about depression?

Depression isn’t just feeling sad—it can affect every part of your life. If you’re not sure when to ask for help, here are some key signs it’s time to reach out to a doctor, counselor, or mental health professional:

You should see your healthcare provider if:

• Symptoms last more than 2 weeks. Things like persistent sadness, fatigue, or loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy.
• You’re struggling with daily life. This might look like trouble at work, in relationships, or just keeping up with basic self-care.
• You have thoughts of self-harm or suicide. These thoughts are serious and deserve immediate attention. You are not alone, and help is available.
  

You are not alone. Many people—just like you—face depression. Healing is possible. And reaching out is a brave and important step toward recovery. Talk to someone you trust—a friend, pastor, or mentor—and let them know how you’re feeling.

Schedule an appointment with a primary care provider or therapist. You don’t need to have all the answers—just take the first step. Use support resources if you’re in immediate danger or need someone to talk to.

If this sounds like what you’re going through, take one small step today. Reach out to a professional or supportive friend. You are worth it. And help is just a conversation away.

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FAQs

Q: What are the best ways to deal with depression?

A: Effective treatment for depression often includes a combination of therapy, antidepressant medications, physical activity, and support from loved ones. Working with a mental health professional can help you develop a personalized plan that addresses your specific needs.

Q: What triggers depression?

A: Depression can be triggered by a range of factors, including genetics, traumatic life events, chronic stress, substance use, medical conditions, and imbalances in brain chemistry, such as low serotonin levels.

Q: How to get out of depression naturally?

A: Some people find symptom relief through natural approaches like regular exercise, mindfulness meditation, healthy eating, sleep routines, and maintaining social connections. While these can be helpful, severe depression often requires professional treatment.

Q: How do you cope with a depressed person?

A: Offer support by listening without judgment, encouraging them to seek help, and being patient. Avoid trying to “fix” them. Suggest professional resources like a mental health provider or the 988 Lifeline.

Q: What are the symptoms of depression?

A: Common symptoms include persistent sadness, loss of interest, fatigue, changes in sleep or appetite, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of self-harm or suicide.

Q: What are the different types of depression?

A: Types include major depressive disorder, persistent depressive disorder, postpartum depression, seasonal affective disorder, and bipolar disorder (which includes depressive episodes).

Q: What is the link between smoking and mental health conditions?

A: Smoking is more common among people with mental health conditions and may temporarily relieve stress, but it often worsens mental illness symptoms over time and is linked to higher rates of depression.

Q: What is substance use disorder?

A: Substance use disorder (SUD) is a mental health condition characterized by the uncontrolled use of substances, such as drugs or alcohol, despite harmful consequences. SUD often co-occurs with depression.

Q: When should I call my healthcare provider?

A: Call if you notice depression symptoms lasting more than 2 weeks, if they interfere with daily life, or if you or a loved one has suicidal thoughts.

Q: How can I help a loved one who is depressed?

A: Be present, listen with compassion, encourage professional help, and check in regularly. Avoid minimizing their pain. Share resources like the 988 Lifeline or a mental health provider.

Q: Can exercise help alleviate depression symptoms?

A: Yes. Studies show that regular physical activity boosts mood, reduces anxiety, and supports long-term mental health by increasing endorphins and serotonin.

Q: Are there effective self-help strategies for managing depression?

A: Yes. Journaling, setting small daily goals, practicing gratitude, and limiting social media use can support emotional well-being.

Q: Are there lifestyle changes that can help alleviate depression?

A: Yes. Healthy nutrition, consistent sleep, reducing alcohol and substance use, and nurturing social relationships can all help improve mental health and ease depression symptoms.