I was once 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 are inclined to make you fearful or depressed, challenge those thoughts by asking yourself questions that will maintain objectivity and common sense.

For example, you’re afraid that if you don’t 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 particular job promotion doesn’t mean that you’ll never get one. Further, people are constantly changing jobs, and you always have the option of going elsewhere if you’re unhappy at your present location.

Then, 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  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. You’ll find that doing something will get your mind off the problem and give you confidence to do other things.

Managing your depressiion through visualizing

It’s quite common for a person to get depressed over a task that must be performed 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. To assist you with self visualization I suggest you check out the Mindful Awareness Training System. You can do that by clicking on the link.

Managing your depression with positive statements

Another technique that is very helpful is to have a small notebook of positive statements that make you 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, preferably aloud.

The techniques that I have just covered are some basic ways to manage your depression.

However your best course of action is to get some help and have a professional depression diagnosis.