I'm depressed. What can I do?!

I'm depressed. What can I do?

I don't want to know how to get treatment. I am already in treatment and taking medication. I work part-time and do hobbies as much as I can afford. But I can not seem to stay busy as much as I'd like to. What can I do to stay busy and feel positive?

The number one, most important thing NOT to do: Don't cut yourself off from other people. This is one of the ways that we reinforce our depression. Go to family functions; set a weekly date with a buddy for a particular activity (Friday night movie and pizza; Tuesday night bridge game; Thursday afternoon Scrabble game; whatever you enjoy doing). Go to a ball game, an art fair, mingle and meet people. Babysit for the neighbor's kids. Volunteer to visit with the elderly at a nursing home. Or volunteer to read books to kids at the library. There are so many things you can do to stay in contact. It's AMAZING how making yourself interact regularly with other people will improve your mood.

THEN:
1. Exercise on a schedule....go to a gym REGULARLY. If money is an issue, try running or power walking or bike riding. A good exercise regimen produces endorphins which improve mood. AND, if possible, exercise regularly with a buddy. Exercising with others gives time to chat, make new friends and bond with old friends.
2. Get a pet. Scientific evidence shows that caring for a pet is highly therapeutic. Plus, if you get a dog, you can take him/her on walks and/or runs and get more EXERCISE ! AND.....taking your pet to the park (or to a doggie park) is another great way to meet new people.
3. Go to church. It's probably one of the BEST places to meet people, and regular church attendance is centering.
4. Take a class at a local community college in a subject you've always wanted to learn about. Again.....here is a proven way to meet people who share your interests.

Bottom line: make a concerted effort to build up your personal network by finding ways to spend time with family, friends, neighbors, church members, and classmates. There's an old saying: "To have a friend, BE a friend." Be nice, smile, be outgoing, don't pre-judge people. Psychological studies have proven that "We like the people we're nice to." Sounds simplistic, but it works. Don't wait for the other person to approach you. Get out there and put yourself on the line. Take a risk. Meet new people. I guarantee that if you make an honest effort to BE a friend, you will earn friends and your feelings of depression will be nothing more than a faint memory.