How to Break the Patterns of Depression

Depression affects millions of Americans. If left untreated, mild depression can lead to severe depression, or clinical depression. It is possible to break the patterns of depression before it reaches clinical depression, by taking steps to break the depression cycle.

Instructions

• 1

  Increase awareness of your depression symptoms by recording them in a daily diary or journal. Monitoring your thoughts and feelings on paper will make them easier to process and overcome.

• 2

  Seek support from others who suffer from depression and can identify with your condition. The Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance website provides a Support Group Directory based on location.

• 3

  Avoid isolation. Make an effort to socialize through your community or place of worship. Reach out to others by placing phone calls when in need of support.

• 4

  Be compliant with any medications prescribed for your depression, and attend all counseling and medical appointments when scheduled.

• 5

  To break specific patterns of depression that are triggered by a seasonal occurrence, such as the holiday season, or the anniversary of the death of a loved one, plan ahead to do something different to mark the occasion. Plan a trip, an outing or perhaps just a meal with friends. Anticipate the depression trigger and schedule your activities accordingly.