It helps but a person must stop and address what is bothering them and not just run, run and run like it will go away if it is truly a problem. Yes, when depressed people get out of themselves and go volunteer and help others the depression disappears right away, try this.
Well, I've tried to make myself so busy that I don't have time to be depressed. It worked. The bummer is that now, I'm not busy, and I find myself VERY depressed. I suggest busying yourself a fair amount, but not so much that you become addicted to it. Make sure that you always have a flexible schedule, and that the people around you who share your schedule aren't left out of it.
This is what helps me, when I'm nonclinical depressed (due to life circumstances, or even just not doing much):
-Talking about it. Seriously, Getting it out helps you work through your feelings and lets you know you're not alone. -Being busy, yes. But not overly busy to where you are shutting out your feelings. Get involved in a community group, volunteer to help others, go to school, get a job... get out of the house!! Comforting others is one way I felt I could not only focus on someone else but use my hard times as an encouragement for someone else. -Reading/listening to/watching positive things. -Hearing the stories of others who have made it through hard times. -Allowing time to cry, scream into a pillow, and think through your feelings. Counseling or talking to a friend could be part of this (it was always really helpful for me; I mentioned that earlier), but it's really important to not suppress how you feel. Part of getting through depression is working through it mentally and emotionally. -Exercise! To be honest, I hate exercising, but if I go for a swim or jump on a trampoline or do 20 minutes on the eliptical machine, I feel so much better. It releases endorphins that help you to feel more cheery. -Trusting in the Lord. That's been a biggie for me.
All the best, dear. I hope you feel better soon. Don't give up. <3
That's been a biggie for me.