Depression can hit anyone at any age. Depression is not something people make up. The symptoms of depression can be at a low level or be very severe. You may feel nearly paralyzed in everyday life and unable to function normally.

Depression can cause a multitude of symptoms and be derived from various factors. If you are experiencing depression, your appetite may be affected, either decreasing or increasing. You may lose interest in things you once loved to do or lack energy to do anything. You may sleep much more than usual, suffer from insomnia or even have suicidal thoughts.

Even though you may be receiving guidance and treatment from your doctor, there are methods you can utilize to help yourself win the battle.

Self-help tips for battling depression:

* Some medications can cause a state of depression. It's important to discuss this with your doctor. If you are taking any type of medication, ask your doctor about the side effects you are experiencing. A change in medication may alleviate the depression.

* Recognize your negative thoughts. These negative thoughts contribute to depression. It's like pouring fuel onto the fire. Negative thoughts go hand-in-hand with depression. It's important to do your best to alleviate those negative thoughts. Take notice of your accomplishments, no matter how small. Everyone has purpose and something to offer in this life. Recognize your value and place that value on yourself so that you have a more positive mind set.

* Don't be so hard on yourself that your expectations are too high. This puts a lot of pressure on, unnecessarily. Concentrate on the areas of life you can control. You need to let go of what you absolutely can do nothing about. A strong focus on what you have no control over is a waste of energy and can cause a sense of failure.

* When you are depressed, your appetite may be nearly non-existent. It's important to eat healthy foods. The right nutrients can help with your overall well-being and help you battle stress and depression. Even drinking something like Ensure will provide you with nutrients you need.

* Exercise is a great stress reducer. Depression can cause a great loss of energy and make you feel unable to exercise. It's important to do your best and try to do at least a little exercise daily. Exercise in small steps if you need to. Enlist an exercise buddy that will help you stay motivated.

* Surround yourself in nature. Nature has a way of creating a soothing atmosphere, which can be healing to the body and mind. Even sitting on your porch in the sunshine a few minutes a day, is better than isolating yourself inside so much. Depression often causes us to want to close ourselves off from the world, but getting out just a little each day can be beneficial.

* Everyday tasks can seem overwhelming when you are under the spell of depression. Prioritize the necessities. Break down what you need to do into small steps. Do one step at a time and feel a sense of accomplishment with each completed task. Knowing you need to do something and not getting it done, can add to stress and depression.

* Involve your mind. Keeping your mind active with positive activities can help ward off any negatives that try to get in. An inactive mind can be a stomping ground for destructive thoughts to take over. If you enjoy reading, read only books that are inspirational and uplifting. Do crossword puzzles or anything that exercises your mind in a positive and constructive way.

* When you are depressed, you may feel the world has turned against you. This isn't true. Don't isolate yourself. Turn to others for support. Allow your voice to be heard. Your feelings and thoughts are as important as anyone else's. Don't hold secret what you are going through. That only makes the battle tougher.

* Surround yourself with positive people. Surrounding yourself with negative people will cause you to feel more depressed. I'm sure you've heard the phrase, "laughter is contagious". So is positive energy from positive people.

* Even at our lowest point, we can find a way to help others. Reaching out to others and feeling a sense of purpose is uplifting and helps us take a break from our own problems. When we see what others are going through, it gives us perspective. We are helping someone else and feel less alone in our struggle.

* Above all else, turn to God. When we increase our spiritual growth, our overall well-being is benefited.

Important:If you are having suicidal thoughts, seek help immediately.

Don't allow depression to steal your happiness and possibly your life!