Depression comes in many shapes and sizes ranging from mild to severe, from situational to clinical. This post will not focus on the medical aspects of depression such as definitions and diagnosis, as I am not a doctor or mental health professional, but will instead focus on ways of reducing or eliminating depression through spiritual and psychological means based on my experiences.
As I’ve stated many times on this site, I am not a mental health professional and the information that I offer is based on my opinions and experiences. Please read the disclaimer at the bottom of the page for additional information. Now that that’s out of the way, let’s move on 
Just to qualify, I used to be depressed. I was depressed off and on for ten to fifteen years. I am happy to say that I am no longer depressed and have not been for about the same amount of time. I cannot possibly tell you in one post how I eliminated my depression and became a happy person, but don’t worry, there is an answer. First, I must say that if you have a problem with alcohol or others substances, please read my post pertaining to this topic.
If you are depressed I would recommend a good psychotherapist to help you get to the bottom of your problems. You probably won’t need to go forever but this may be a necessary step to eliminating your depression. If you don’t need to be there, hopefully the therapist will let you know. Even if you do not have an overwhelming need to be there, psychotherapy can help you to improve yourself in many ways. In regards to medication, again, I’m no doctor but I believe that anti-depressant meds are overused and unnecessary for many. I am sure that some people may truly require such medication but if you go to a psychiatrist and tell him/her that you are depressed, there is a good chance that you will leave with a script. That’s what they do, they prescribe meds and often without therapy. They’ll meet with you for ten minutes per month and keep writing you scripts. If you ask your family doctor for an antidepressant, with a brief explanation, good chance you’ll get your script there as well. Unless absolutely necessary, I do not believe in taking such meds, even if they help, they are still an easy, temporary way out. Just my opinion
So, after all that, what is the answer? What can you do to eliminate your depression and become happy and content? Read every post on this site, as spiritual and psychological work is the answer. Sorry if that disappoints you, but it’s true for me and many others whom I know. The way out of depression is a process and not typically an overnight matter. Happiness comes gradually as the periods of depression become further apart over time. For some, including me, happiness requires constant effort but the results are certainly well worth the effort.
I have written and will continue to write about spiritual and psychological practices and principles that can help you to rid yourself of depression and aid you in your quest for happiness. Every time I write a post, I reconnect with the principles of which I am writing so, as I hope that my writings help others, as that was the premise of this site, I find that I am helping myself as well. An unexpected but welcomed side effect. These principle really do work and not just for me, but for others as well. You have to begin some place and at some time, why not here and now? Be patient and be vigilant. Practice a little every day. Practicing could be reading a post on this site, going to church or a therapist, volunteering your time to help others, praying or reading a self-help book. In time you will find your way, you will find what works for you. Just get started.
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