Help for Depression can often come from the most unexpected places. as an example, did you know it's it's probably to give yourself a break from Depression without taking medication or going to see a therapist? It's true. There are some pretty simple, effective and even, pleasurable, techniques you, yourself, can use to lift your spirits and ease your discomfort.

That being said, it's important to practice these tips with regularity if you want to get the best results. This may be challenging in the beginning when your energy and motivation are low. So, give yourself permission to start out slow. Do only what you can, and never beat yourself up because you think you should be doing more.

1. Start by clearing away any clutter that may be taking up space in the areas of your home or work where you spend the most time.

Chaotic, messy spaces often reflect the chaos and confusion you may be experiencing with Depression. When all this clutter is reflected back at you everyday it can make your symptoms worse. Clean, clear spaces can help to promote feelings of peace, calm and positive possibilities.

2. Set up a quiet place where you can be alone without disruptions. You're going to do some very important work in this space, so be sure to fix it up with images, sounds and objects that make you feel good.

3. Set a block of time aside, all the time, to be in your quiet place. During this time you can either a) practice relaxation techniques; or you can, b) do some simple exercises to help change your negative thinking patterns, and gain more control over our life.

a) This relaxation technique is simple to follow and easy to customize to suit your personal needs. After practicing these steps for a while, you will find you'll be able to do this just about anywhere and any time you see fit:

• Sit up straight with both feet flat on the floor
• Gently rest the backs of your hands on your thighs
• Close your eyes
• Focus your attention on your breath as it moves in and out of your nose (keep your mouth closed)
• Slowly and deeply inhale as you count one
• Slowly and deeply exhale as you count two
• Slowly and deeply inhale as count three
• Slowly and deeply exhale as you count four
• Continue this inhale/exhale/number rotation until you reach ten, then begin again at one
• Try to complete at least two sets of 10. This will total 10 slow inhales and 10 slow exhales. Maintain your focus on your breath as it passes in and out of your nostrils.

If you become distracted by a thought, merely notice it, let it pass, and bring your focus back to your nose. Start again at one.

b) Here are some simple pencil and paper exercises which can provide help for Depression through thoughtful self-examination and purposeful action:

• Create a soothing atmosphere by putting on some relaxing music and sitting comfortably in a chair.
• Make a list of all the things you believe are currently contributing to your miserable condition. Leave a space between items.
• One at a time, take an item on your list.
• Being as completely honest with yourself as possible, decide if this item is something that can be changed.
• If it cannot be changed, let it go.
• If it can be changed, write down the most productive, do-able solutions for improving the situation

If you have difficulty letting one of the items go, at least try to catch up with a solution that won't damage your spirits any further. If possible, try meditating on acceptance of those things which just don't seem to have any solution.

These simple techniques can go a long way toward easing your discomforts and giving you new insights for coping with life.

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