Do you feel overly tired and lazy? Do you have days, more regular than you like, where you don't feel like getting dressed - or even getting out of bed? Do you ever find yourself avoiding social situations because "You just don't feel like it"?

If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then you might be suffering from depression.

Here are some superb tips to conquer the stagnant mood of depression and add more happiness into your daily routine.

1) Soak Up All the Light and Sunshine You Can.

A lack of exposure to sunlight is responsible for the secretion of the hormone melatonin, which could trigger a dispirited mood and a lethargic condition.

Melatonin is only produced in the dark. It lowers your body temperature and makes you feel sluggish. If you spend too much time cooped up in your room then you could be setting yourself up for depression.

This is the reason why many people are suffering from depression much more often in winter than in the other seasons. Cold weather and less sunshine lead people indoors, away from the light.

If your work keeps you indoors, take short walking breaks outside; have lunch in the park; attempt to get as much natural light as possible in your work space; and replace standard lighting with a full-spectrum light bulb.

2) Get Busy. Get Inspired.

You'll be more likely to overcome any feeling of depression if you are too busy to notice it. Live a life full of inspired activities.

Do the things you love. If you're short on cash, then enjoy the simple life - take a leisurely stroll in the park, get in a game of basketball, tennis - whatever you prefer - read engaging books, or get started in any activity that you have passion for and would love to pursue.

Set a some goals and have a meaningful purpose in life. No matter how difficult or discouraging life can be, remain firm in the unwavering belief that you are capable of doing anything you desire. You are.

3) Take a Break.

Listen to soothing music. Soak in a nice warm bath. Ask one of your close friends to massage you. Take a break from your stressful workload and spend the day just goofing around. In other words, have fun.

4) Eat Right and Stay Fit.

Avoid foods with lots of sugar, caffeine, or alcohol. Sugar and caffeine may give you a brief moment of energy; but they will also bring on anxiety , tension, and internal problems. Sugar is a depressant, and once the initial buzz wears off it will leave you feeling down and tired. Think twice before picking up that donut!

Alcohol is also a depressant. Many people drink alcohol to "forget their problems." But, they're just aggravating their conditions in the process.

Exercising regularly is a vital depression buster. Exercise allows your body to produce more endorphins than usual. Endorphins are sometimes called "the happy chemicals" because of their stress-reducing and happiness-inducing properties.

5) Get a Social Life.

Your circle of friends are there to give you moral support. Spending time and engaging in worthwhile activities with them could give you a very satisfying feeling. Nothing feels better than having group support.

If friendships are a challenge, find some interest groups and commit to attending them for a period of time. Often, when stuck in depression, all social activity ceases and "getting out" can feel very uncomfortable. This is normal. Just keep getting out and week after week you'll find the depression melts away.

6) Learn to "Let Go"

Depression often results from a long-term build-up of feelings that lead a person to feel overwhelmed, insecure and stressed. Depression becomes "safe way" to avoid dealing with those feelings - or facing uncomfortable situations.

Instead of allowing those feelings to build up, the easiest - and possibly most effective - solution is to learn a process called the Release Technique. It's effectiveness has been documented by researchers at Harvard University and the program is recommended by a number of highly renowned psychologists.

About the Author
Most people can overcome depression naturally, without risking the harmful side-effects of anti-depressant drugs. Learn more about natural depression treatments at: http://www.depression-relief.com/