Persistent depression can interfere with a person’s health and social well-being, affecting normal day-to-day activities. The first step to recovery is recognizing the causes and symptoms of depression. Although overcoming depression takes time, it can be possible by making positive choices for yourself and drawing on support from the people around you.

The following are some tips to help you cope with depression:

1. Set realistic goals. Start with a few small goals, and build from there. Everyone has different abilities. Try to identify your strengths and improve on your weaknesses, and focus on your positive accomplishments.
2. Think positively. Try to replace negative thoughts with positive ones. Socialize with positive people who look on the bright side of things, and try to embrace their optimism.
3. Do not isolate yourself. Ask friends and family members for help, or join a support group in which you can share experiences with others who have depression. Participate in social activities, even if you do not feel up to it.
4. Do things that you enjoy or used to enjoy. Go out with friends; take trips; express yourself through art, music, or writing; take up a hobby; or play sports. Even if your depression does not dissipate immediately, you will gradually feel better as you make time for enjoyable activities.
5. Maintain healthy lifestyle habits. Eat a healthy diet, exercise, and get a sufficient amount of sleep.
6. Manage stress. Identify stressors in your life, and avoid them or minimize their impact. Prac­tice relaxation techniques, such as yoga, deep breathing, meditation, or muscle relaxation.

Know when to get help. If symptoms of depression persist or become worse, do not hesitate to get professional help.

Historically, bad economic times have been followed by increases in suicide attempts and death rates. During the Great Depression, suicide rates rose from 14 to 17 for every 100,000 Americans from 1929 to 1933. Today, people who lose their job, their house, or their retirement plan, find themselves in a difficult predicament. They feel that they lose control of their life. One might see an increase in the rate of alcohol or substance use, or even domestic violence, all of which are risk factors for suicide. Some people might even feel responsible and guilty for their predicament. In either case, people may not realize that they need help or they are too ashamed to ask for it.

I was once told that "suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem." No matter how difficult the situation might be, one has to know that there is help available. One can talk to a family member or friend, to their priest or pastor, to a professional like your family doctor, therapist, or psychiatrist. There is even a National Suicide Prevention Lifeline toll-free number: 1-800-273-TALK (8255) that one can call 24 hours a day.