If you've struggled with depression in the past but feel like you've recovered, you should plan ahead for depressive periods just in case. People who've been diagnosed with depression should learn about and know their triggers. For example, someone may realize that his depression stems from the loss of his wife 3 years ago and know that around the anniversary of her death, her birthday and the holidays, he may have a depressive episode.
Family and Friends
Talk to your close family members and friends about your struggles with depression and let them know how they can help. Tell them about dates or events that trigger depressive episodes and ask for their support around those times. If you notice symptoms of depression creeping up, plan a weekend trip with your girlfriends, ask your brother to go out to eat and to a movie and invite your niece out for a pedicure. The point is to surround yourself with your loved ones.
Therapy
Whenever you feel depression returning, you should contact your therapist and schedule a few sessions. Most therapists will encourage you to return to therapy for just a handful of sessions if you need just a little support. Talk to your therapist about how you were able to get out of depression the last time and utilize those coping skills. For example, if you took long walks every morning and meditated in the evening, do it again. Examine the reasons that your depression returned and figure out how you might be able to prevent it in the future.
Invite a close friend or family member who sees you on a regular basis to come to a therapy session to discuss the signs and symptoms of your depression. If your friend knows what to look for, she can help you become aware when the depression is back and can encourage you to return to therapy and take care of yourself when you aren't able to do it.
Self-Care
Take care of yourself by eating regularly, getting 8 hours of sleep and exercising. This might seem simple, but people suffering from depression have a hard time taking care of their basic needs. As soon as you start to notice the symptoms of depression returning make a specific plan to take care of yourself. Try your best to make it to your weekly kickboxing class and don't stop hiking on the weekends, even if it's hard. If you're having a hard time getting motivated or don't feel like you have the energy, ask your friends and family members to help you.
