Life After Depression

Most writing on depression considers how depressed people might become well rather than what they should do to stay well once they have recovered. This chapter focuses on the concept of life “after” depression. Guidance is offered regarding how formerly depressed people might think about their history of depression and learn from the experience of depression as a means to move their life in more productive directions. The value of taking inventory in the aftermath of depression on what benefits and harms mood is considered, along with the value of developing plans to actively manage mood during recovery. Depression can offer an opportunity to exit counterproductive life and mood patterns. Clinical examples of positive learning from depression are offered. The chapter closes with consideration of what individuals should do if depression symptoms return.