Some people have a difficult time in managing their depression.

Sometimes, their depression and fears can get best of them. As a

result, here is a short list of techniques that a person can use

to help manage their depression.

I was told by a counselor that one of the ways to manage

depression is to challenge your negative thinking with positive

statements and realistic thinking. When encountering thoughts

that make your fearful or depressed, challenge those thoughts

by asking yourself questions that will maintain objectivity and

common sense. For example, your afraid that if you do not get

that job promotion then you will be stuck at your job forever.

This depresses you, however your thinking in this situation is

unrealistic. The fact of the matter is that there all are kinds

of jobs available and just because you don’t get this job

promotion doesn’t mean that you will never get one. In

addition, people change jobs all the time, and you always have

that option of going elsewhere if you are unhappy at your

present location.

Some people get depressed and have a difficult time getting out

of bed in the mornings. When this happens, a person should take

a deep breathe and try to find something to do to get their

mind off of the problem. A person could take a walk, listen to

some music, read the newspaper or do an activity that will give

them a fresh perspective on things. Doing something will get

your mind off of the problem and give you confidence to do

other things.

Sometimes, we can get depressed over a task that we will have

to perform in the near future. When this happens, visualize

yourself doing the task in your mind. For instance, you and

your team have to play in the championship volleyball game in

front of a large group of people in the next few days. Before

the big day comes, imagine yourself playing the game in your

mind. Imagine that your playing in front of a large audience.

By playing the game in your mind, you will be better prepared

to perform for real when the time comes. Self Visualization is

a great way to reduce the fear and stress of a coming

situation.

Another technique that is very helpful is to have a small

notebook of positive statements that make us feel good.

Whenever you come across an affirmation that makes you feel

good, write it down in a small notebook that you can carry

around with you in your pocket. Whenever you feel depressed,

open up your small notebook and read those statements.

As a Layman and author of an anxiety book, I have done many

interviews with various counselors in how to manage fear,

anxiety and depression. The techniques that I have just covered

are some basic ways to manage your depression, however your best

bet is to get some help from a professional.