I have gone through a number of years of depressions in the past. For me they were episodic. Medication was prescribed, but I would not take it. I was determined to work thru it on my own. To will myself thru that dark tunnel, at the end of which was little light. There were times that I did not know whether I would make it or not. Well, I rode the Hell out of my bicycle, daily. Lots of salads. Lots of water. Happy food! whatever food makes you dance while you're eating it. Hostess cupcakes,twinkies, whatever! Watch television shows that lift your spirit. Not CSI Miami etc. Constantly treat yourself. The little things that make you smile inside. Do them!
Find an excellent physician, if you don't have one. Follow his/her advice as close as you can. I had about 5 religious books. I pored over them again and again and again. OK! Exercise. Eat well. Advice from Good physician. Follow it. Will yourself thru this dark period. You can do it! I know you can. If you want to you can do it.
Today, I feel good everyday! You could not look at me and guess my age. I see guys my age everyday! But I don't look like them. I play the lottery, but not out of despair. I wanna win. If I don't in the next year or two, I'll get back out there and sell Annuities/Insurance products. Don't really want to, But!!!
Throw yourself in to your school or work, and assemble these other activities around this new goal. Lift your head up, keep your spirit up. You'll be OKAY!!!!
Escape negative environments, avoid negative people, and SOAR!!!