[DanBC]

Consider therapy guided cognitive behaviour therapy; coupled with mindfulness. Find a good, experienced therapist. Make clear your expectations, and be confidant enough to walk away if it's not working. You've had an illness for a long time and have deeply learned behaviours. You need to unlearn some of those behaviours. You might not be able to fix everything in the 8 - 14 weeks that CBT takes, but you should get techniques that help you cope and that you can keep applying over time.

Consider talking to a doctor about medication. I have no medical training, I'm not going to advise on medication. But there are different types of medication. There are different types of anti-depressant, and there are anti-anxiety meds.

While you're doing that you might need to put in some work on building up resilience. This will include support networks of people to socialise with; education and work stuff; exercise; etc. It'll include getting your food sorted out, and your sleep hygiene.

Expect to put in a lot of work.

But good luck!

[turnwhere]

I agree, being happier takes a lot of work. That in itself is sad, but I can accept it.

I actually had CBT last year for 10 weeks. Although it may not have helped much, I think one or two things did stay in my mind, and maybe still help me now. When I'm back home I will call up the therapist and ask for more. Just one more thing which perhaps can help.

My food regime is good. My sleep is ok. I used to exercise a lot but recently stopped.. probably part of my falling back into another deep episode of depression.