Self Help
There is a lot that can be done to self help. If you can do so physically then anything that gives vigorous activity can have a very beneficial effect. Activities such as Walking, Running, Weightlifting, Gymnastics, Swimming, Gardening etc can have tremendous results. The reason for this is that Depression is a slowing down of the brain chemistry, vigorous activity quickens up the response in the brain thus can give an instant if at times temporary relieve to depression. Regular Exercise is therefore very beneficial in Depression and Dysthymia. Other possible helps are a change, prehaps a holiday, sometimes more drastic a change of job or house however that last two should not be entered into lightly. Sometimes just sitting down with someone and talking can help, if possible try to work out why you are depressed sometimes it is obvious but other times it takes some working out but finding a reason then working out how to change things (self counseling) can give permanent relief.