8 Helpful Websites for Coping With Depression

Coping with depression means having to deal with your own struggles and social stigma.

The following websites include an online guide, tips and articles related to coping,

online depression communities, and an action plan for recovery.

What it’s called:

Suite101

Who it’s for:

Proactive people with depression

Why we like it: "Coping" is the fifth "lesson" in an eight-part guide to depression. In this section, you will learn about taking one day at a time, dealing with the stigma of depression, the importance of support groups, and the power of cognitive therapy and spirituality in the healing process. Set aside time for this lengthy but valuable read.

What it’s called:

About.com

Who it’s for:

Anyone struggling to cope with depression

Why we like it: This site offers self-help articles about coping with various aspects of depression. Learn how to let go of the past, make positive changes in your life, and deal with insomnia. Practice breathing exercises and read about the power of forgiveness.

What it’s called:

HelpHorizons.com

Who it’s for:

Anyone suffering from depression

Why we like it: This list of articles addresses important steps you can take in the coping process. For example, you can work on building self-esteem and self-reliance. Develop a "Wellness Toolbox," which includes positive things you can do for yourself, including writing a list of your accomplishments and looking at old photographs.

What it’s called:

HealingWell.com

Who it’s for:

Anyone looking for support online while coping with depression

Why we like it: You can find chat rooms, message boards, and online communities focused on coping with depression. Start here if you want to connect online with other people with depression.

What it’s called:

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

Who it’s for:

Anyone with a mental illness, such as depression

Why we like it: One of the frustrating parts of recovery is realizing you don't always have the time to do the things you need to do to stay well. This guide from the National Mental Health Information Center tells you how to design an individual action plan that will help you cope with your disease, while living your life.

What it’s called:

National Empowerment Center

Who it’s for:

People who have been labeled "mentally ill"

Why we like it: The center offers an array of multimedia resources to help you adjust to living with a mental illness like depression. Books and DVDs, events focused on creating a supportive environment for yourself, and audio programs that can teach you to better function in society are available here.

What it’s called:

National Mental Health Consumers' Self-Help Clearinghouse

Who it’s for:

People with depression and their caregivers

Why we like it: The clearinghouse helps connect users to self-help and advocacy resources and offers expertise on peer-run groups that serve people who have been diagnosed with mental illnesses. The site's list of resources is constantly being updated.

What it’s called:

National Stigma Clearinghouse

Who it’s for:

Anyone interested in mental health

Why we like it: This site, while not visually alluring, provides commentary on the media's coverage of mental health. Posts have included must-see videos and data analysis, as well as critiques of newspaper editorials and portrayals of mental illness in advertising.