What are some healthy tools you use to shorten bouts of depression?

Every bout is different, just as every person, so what once works may not work again, or what works for me may not work for others. Still, having ideas about what to try is always good! What has helped me in the past is journaling, writing gratitude lists, and most specially scheduling a day out of every week for myself alone, to do what I want without any kind of guilt. That day I don't bother with chores if I don't want to, I don't get out of bed if I don't want to, I don't even eat if I don't want to... but I've found that it's the day that I'm doing most of those things because taking away the guilt and obligations takes such a huge load off of my shoulders that I actually want to do them (or some of them, anyway). And, as it's only one day of out seven, nothing suffers much!

Personally, when I've had the depressive episodes, I've found that writing about the feelings can be that healthy release. Talking through the emotions in a non-judgmental medium can be extremely helpful. Nobody ever has to see what you've written. You don't even have to re-read it. Just getting it out can help.

There are lots of little things you can do that are simply (and healthy) to combat those times of depression. It could be something as simple as listening to comforting music you enjoy, journaling, or maybe writing down all of your "joys" that day. (things that make you happy). You can make a list of your accomplishments, even if it's something as small as getting up that morning or switching soda for water, then reflect on those accomplishments later and feel proud of yourself. :) Best wishes.

Some healthy coping techniques that I use personally to short bouts of depression include both reaching out to supportive people in my life, releasing energy by doing creative activities that I enjoy, taking a walk in nature and letting my mind clear, as well as surrounding myself with the things that comfort me. There is no shame in using comfort items that may have been something that has been familiar to you since an early age. For example, a comfortable blanket and an older movie that makes you feel uplifted. Perhaps a plushie stuffed animal that you can squeeze and hug.

Tea! Really effective, I also love to exercise. It takes my mind off of any problems, just taking a nice stroll down your block works too.

Drink a smoothie, do some exercise, make plans with a friend, take a shower, do the laundry and go grocery shopping (you will thank yourself later), clean the house, spend quality time with your family and your pets, meditate.

Focus on the things that are missing in the clients lives and to not focus on the past too much. It's important to focus on past accomplishments and to find out what your client is good at and to eat the depression by focusing away from the negative and turn them to the positive.

This sounds cheesy but find a hobby - something to take your mind off things. I find drawing or doing my makeup is very therapeutic as you are alone with your thoughts but still concentrating on something. I also find exercise or a long shower/bath helps clear thoughts.

Helping people. You can only get kindness if you give kindness. Taking the anger out on exercise... These are the two things I have newly discovered and it has worked out pretty well for me... You can always try to excercise and find recources on the internet to get better... It is not that it is a bad thing... Have you ever tried to explore on your own about what may help you? Take a moment to think about it... It will be of great fun and it will help you. You can even y=try to imagine yourelf as a friend and try to give advice for yourself.