Depression is an evil thing. It can turn the happiest person alive into someone who is completely different. People don't understand what you are going through and think you may be moody. Before being diagnosed with depression, you may feel lost, unsure and alone, I know I did. These are common feelings for those who do have depression.

Going to the doctor to be diagnosed was one of the most difficult decisions I have ever made. I thought that I was fine and that I was just tired and stressed out because of school. When I started skipping class to stay home and sleep, I realized I was not myself. I didn't enjoy doing the activities I loved doing before and I had a difficult time understanding why. Little did I know, there was another side to the story.

After talking to my doctor, I realized that depression is common. It isn't something that I should be ashamed of and I feel like that is what most people don't understand. It took me awhile to understand it for myself. If you are going through depression, there are a few things that you should know.

1. Don't Be Afraid To Get Help

Seeking help doesn't always make you look weak. In fact, in this case, it makes you look strong. Talking to someone about this takes a lot of courage and strength, but your doctor is a good place to start. Your doctor will be able to help you in anyway they can. After you take an evaluation, your doctor will decide the best course of action. I feel that speaking to a counselor helped me the most. It doesn't make you crazy. When my doctor suggested a counselor I felt that she thought I was crazy, but it honestly helped a lot. Talking to a counselor is nice because you have someone to talk to that remains neutral and unbiased. Your counselor will then keep track of the progress you make and will continue to come up with ways for you to overcome your depression.

2. Depression Does NOT Define You

Having depression may change your moods but it does not define you. Don't let anyone ever define you from your depression. It is really hard to handle and control your emotions and feelings when you have depression. Some days are better than other days, but there is nothing you can do to help it, it just happens. If you are talking to someone about your depression, make sure they know your depression does not define you as a person. Depression is something that you go through and you grow through. You find strength in yourself that you never had before.

3. It's Normal To Overthink

Overthinking can cause so many problems, but it is natural. With most cases of depression comes anxiety. Anxiety is like the evil little cousin of depression. It just sits there and kicks you down, when you are already down. Sometimes anxiety will sit there and bother you all day. In situations you were comfortable with before you may be uncomfortable in now. It could be as simple as something someone says. After someone says something you sit there and over analyze what the did say. "What did he mean by that?" "Why do they think that about me?" "How could they say that?" It is normal to feel like this when having depression.

4. Don't Stop Doing What You Love

The most important thing is that you still do what you loved doing before you were diagnosed with depression. Some days it is really hard to find the motivation to do anything. Even completing one small task a day can make a difference, and lead you on the road to recovery. It is important that you keep your friends close while you are going through depression. Even though your friends may not completely understand what you are going through, true friends will help you the best they can. Stay busy and continue to do the things you love. You'll be glad you did.

5. It Does Get Better

At first it seems like everything is going to stay the same. You feel like your not going to get better and that you will never be happy again. But it does get better but you have to listen to your doctor and those who are trying to help you. It is important though to try to keep negative people, activities, and feelings away. You won't get better if you keep living in the negative parts of your life. It is important to go back and do the activities you loved doing before and talking to the people who brought the best out in you. With time and patience, it will get better.

You may feel like you are having the worst day of your life, but I promise you it will get better. It is important for you to seek professional help when going through depression. Continue doing the things you loved once before and try to find the happy person you once used to be. It is a lot easier said than done, but it is possible.