How I manage is to always keep in mind that there are still good times even though it doesn't seem like there ever will be. From time to time I will suddenly become aware that I feel pretty good. You have to be very conscious of your feelings. It's very easy to only remember the down times and you can start to believe that's all there will ever be.
I've been in treatment for over five years but probably have had depression for most of my adult life. The only advice I can offer is don't give up.
take care -- lb
Does anyone have any suggestions for coping with long term chronic depression that never seems to go away despite medication use. Is it possible to spend ones whole life with depression? How can you help yourself?