Self-Help for Depression

Self-help is about taking control of your depression and finding what works for you. The value of self-help is that you don't need to rely on other people. You get to take charge of your situation and be in control of what you do. On this page there are some ideas of ways you can help yourself to get you started.

Become an expert in your own illness. You've started by looking at this site; carry on reading about treating depression, the symptoms of depression and different types of depression. But don't just take our word for it. There are lots of good books and websites out there.

Reading inspirational or self-help books is a useful way of finding out more about depression and anxiety and how to deal with emotional problems. Self-help books range from personal accounts of living with mental health problems to more structured course workbooks where you practice techniques. Visit the book review section of this website for reviews of books that may help you.

Guided self-help involves working through a self-help book, CD or computer program either on your own or with a therapist or self-help coach. It is often, but not always, based on Cognitive Behavior Therapy. Your GP can prescribe guided self-help or, if you're in Scotland, you can access guided self-help through Action on Depression. It can be easy to isolate yourself when you have depression but loneliness can make depression worse. Often people with depression lose confidence and feel like their friends and family doesn’t want to be around them. If you have people who accept you for who you are in your life, spending time with them can be a real mood booster.

Talking about how you feel is one of the best things you can do if you are concerned about your low mood or anxiety. If you don't have anyone to talk to, or don't want to talk to your friends and family call or email a helpline. Take help from Depression Help Online support group where you will be able to talk to people who have had similar experiences to you and share hints and tips on coping with Depression. Depression Help Online support group can help you to feel less isolated and alone with your depression. Action on Depression supports self-help support groups and so do other organizations. We also have an online community for people with depression.

You may feel like you don't enjoy anything, even things you used to like, but do something you may enjoy. Whether it's going to the football, a long walk in the countryside, going to the cinema, a night out with pals or something else give it a go. Write down how you feel about going before you go and rate how much you think you will enjoy it out of 10. Then after the activity, rate how much you actually enjoyed it out of 10.  You may be surprised!  If you don't enjoy it, try something else. For more information visit the site http://selfbetter.com/ .