Choose Happiness & Joy
Depression doesn't define you. You have the power to find joy, build resilience, and create a life filled with happiness and meaning.
Crisis? Call 988 immediately
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline - 24/7 support
Your Happiness Action Plan
Small steps to big changes
Understanding Depression's Impact
Depression affects every aspect of life, but recognizing these impacts is the first step toward healing and happiness.
- Persistent sadness and hopelessness
- Loss of interest in activities
- Difficulty concentrating and making decisions
- Negative thought patterns and self-criticism
- Sleep disturbances and fatigue
- Suicidal thoughts or ideation
- Social withdrawal and isolation
- Strained relationships with family and friends
- Difficulty maintaining friendships
- Reduced communication and connection
- Loss of social support networks
- Impact on romantic relationships
- Decreased work or academic performance
- Loss of motivation and drive
- Neglect of personal care and hygiene
- Financial difficulties from reduced productivity
- Missed opportunities and goals
- Physical health complications
Crisis Resources
If you or someone you know is in crisis or having suicidal thoughts
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
988
24/7 crisis support
Crisis Text Line
Text HOME to 741741
24/7 crisis support via text
SAMHSA National Helpline
1-800-662-4357
Mental health treatment referrals
Emergency Services
911
For immediate medical emergencies
Path to Happiness
Recovery from depression involves multiple approaches. Here are proven strategies to help you find joy and build resilience.
- Consult with a mental health professional
- Consider therapy (CBT, DBT, or other approaches)
- Explore medication options with a psychiatrist
- Join depression support groups
- Work with a counselor specializing in depression
- Consider intensive outpatient programs if needed
- Establish a consistent daily routine
- Get regular sunlight exposure
- Practice good sleep hygiene
- Eat nutritious, regular meals
- Stay hydrated throughout the day
- Limit alcohol and avoid drugs
- Start with gentle exercise like walking
- Try yoga or stretching routines
- Dance to your favorite music
- Join group fitness classes
- Spend time in nature and outdoors
- Set small, achievable fitness goals
- Practice mindfulness and meditation
- Challenge negative thought patterns
- Keep a gratitude journal
- Learn stress management techniques
- Engage in creative activities
- Set small, manageable daily goals
Your Happiness Action Plan
Use this comprehensive checklist to guide your journey to mental wellness. Check off each item as you complete it.
Mental Health Resources
Comprehensive resources to support your mental health journey and connect you with professional help.
Feeling Good by David Burns
Classic cognitive behavioral therapy guide
The Depression Cure by Stephen Ilardi
Lifestyle-based approach to depression
Mind Over Mood
Workbook for cognitive behavioral therapy
The Happiness Trap by Russ Harris
Acceptance and commitment therapy approach
Lost Connections by Johann Hari
Understanding the real causes of depression
Use this space to track your thoughts, goals, mood patterns, and progress. Your notes are saved locally and remain private.
💡 Suggestions for your notes:
- Daily mood and energy levels
- Activities that bring you joy
- Gratitude and positive moments
- Triggers and warning signs
- Coping strategies that work
- Support network contacts
You Deserve Happiness
Depression is not your fault, and recovery is possible. Every small step toward wellness is a victory worth celebrating. You have the strength to build a life filled with joy, connection, and meaning.
Today
One small positive action can start changing everything.
This Month
Building healthy habits and finding moments of joy each day.
Your Future
A life filled with purpose, connection, and genuine happiness.