Though depression can be an extremely difficult disease to handle, there are strategies that help. Some methods of managing it effectively are explored below.

1. Seeking early treatment
   If you have feelings of unhappiness that are persistent and interfere with your activities and relationships, you are probably suffering from depression. Early treatment is key to the quickest possible recovery.
   
   
2. Taking all medications as prescribed by your doctor
   Work with your doctor to decide which medications to try and then make sure to take them faithfully. If you are feeling better, don't stop taking antidepressants without getting the go-ahead from your doctor.
   
   
3. Attending all scheduled therapy sessions
   Therapy can be a very effective tool in managing depression. Working with a psychiatrist, psychologist or clinical social worker in regular therapy can help depressed individuals find better ways to cope, solve problems and set realistic goals, as well as manage suicide risk if there is any. Skipping therapy sessions can extend or negatively affect treatment for depression.
   
   
4. Eating a well-balanced diet
   A healthful diet is an essential part of managing depression. It is composed of foods that provide a variety of nutrients, including vitamins and minerals. Foods that should be part of any sound diet include:
   
   
   • Vegetables
   • Whole grains
   • Fruits
   • Dairy products
   • Beans
   • Lean meats
   • Poultry and fish
   • Nuts and seeds
   
   You can work with your doctor and/or dietitian to create a meal plan that is well balanced and that offers a variety of food choices.
   
   
5. Avoiding illegal drugs and alcohol
   Although moderate alcohol consumption may offer some health benefits, people who abuse alcohol have an increased risk of depression. The same is true for individuals who abuse illegal or prescription drugs. If you have depression, it is best to avoid these substances, which can worsen symptoms and inhibit the effects of antidepressant medications.
   
   
6. Exercising regularly
   Regular physical activity has been shown to have antidepressant effects in people with mild to moderate depression, who are encouraged to exercise for 30 minutes a day on most days of the week. If you are new to exercise, it is best to begin gradually by exercising for just a few minutes at a time, and work your way up to 30 minutes or more a day. Aerobic activity (also called cardio) is typically most effective at relieving symptoms of depression. Examples of aerobic exercise include walking, running, biking, dancing, in-line skating, swimming and playing basketball. (Consult with your doctor before beginning a new fitness routine.)
   
   
7. Getting plenty of rest
   Changes in sleep patterns are common among people with depression. They may sleep too much (hypersomnia) or not enough (insomnia). It is common for depressed individuals to awaken early in the morning and have difficulty falling back asleep.
   
   Sometimes these problems can be allayed with a few simple strategies, such as avoiding beverages with caffeine before bedtime, refraining from napping during the day and using earplugs to block out background noise. Getting the recommended amount of sleep can help alleviate feelings of depression.
   
   
8. Employing positive coping methods
   It is common to feel hopeless during a depressive episode. But you can help take control of your condition by identifying and using positive coping methods. In other words, when you start to feel sad, you can do something that provides solace. While this may not always ease the pain, and it's certainly not a cure, it can help stem the sadness on some occasions. Positive coping methods include:
   
   
   • Writing in a journal
   • Talking to a friend or family member
   • Exercising
   • Engaging in a hobby, such as cooking, drawing or gardening
   
   
9. Sharing your feeling with others
   Sharing your feelings with others, such as friends, family members and your doctor and/or therapist, can help you identify and work through any emotional challenges you may be experiencing. Having a reliable network of social supports can help combat the feelings of isolation that often accompany depression.