Healthy lifestyle habits can help prevent depression, or lessen the chances of it happening again. These habits include eating properly, sleeping adequately, exercising regularly, learning to relax, and not drinking alcohol or using drugs.

Counseling may help you through times of grief, stress, or low mood. Family therapy may be particularly important for teens who feel blue.

For elderly or others who feel socially isolated or lonely, try volunteering or getting involved in group activities.

Moore D, Jefferson J.  Major Depressive Disorder. In: Handbook of Medical Psychiatry. 2nd ed. Mosby, Inc., 2004; 134-141.

Screening for Depression Recommendations and Rationale. US Preventive Services Task Force, Guidelines from Guide to Clinical Preventive Services: 3rd ed. Rockville, Md. US Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Agency for Health Care Policy and Research; May 1, 2002.

World Health Organization. The World Health Report 2001 - Mental Health: New Understanding, New Hope. Geneva World Health Organization, 2001.