Understanding Depression

I have returned from abroad to Canada and am still looking to make it as an individual as far as having regular work and financial independence. This has caused considerable stress that is aggravated by the economic uncertainty and changing global economy. However change in itself is good and I should welcome it in order to move forward and meet new challenges. Here are some things to recognize so that one can avoid depression.

1. Depression can occur when one allows themselves to be unduly influenced by the negativity around him. Avoid people who project negativity onto you or want to use you. It may sound selfish but if you are going through rough times the thing you need is stability, not someone who wants to squander your resources for their benefit. Life is a two way street.
2. People who have unresolved couple issues are candidates for depression or anxiety. The best thing for them to do is to seek councelling or to talk about their problems so that they can be solved. I know of one case where the hysband is at odds with the wife because she is always inviting her brother over. The family is very close and obviously there is either some jealousy or the husband feels imposed upon. The wife thinks the husband is always hateful towards her family. Clearly they have to straighten out this issue.
3. I noticed that friends who have no clear goals are more likely to get depressed than those that do. One shopuld always be working towards some goal no matter how remote that may be. That is the kind of talk you hear in motivational speeches and the like.
4. If you leave yourself open to constructive criticism that is good but if you mull over criticism as though it is an arm to be used against you that is unhealthy and has to be addressed. Being too sensitive can lead to depression. Clearly one has to come to terms with what is acceptable and what is not when it comes to people who pass judgments and are harmful in their critical approach. So the person has to develop some kind of barrier, or make some positive resolution if he knows that he will be afflicted  by counterproductive opinions. Maybe if he just says that everyone is entitled to an opinion, it can be accepted and he can move on.
5. People who lock themselves in time and do not move forward to accept a newer reality are also candidates for depression. This happens especially with the passing away of a loved one or the loss of a friend. Friendship is neither permanent nor was it it made to be but if it continues, it is a wonderful thing. Death occurs as does life does and is constantly around us. It should be viewed more as a means for relief, when there is a severe injury to a person who has no hope to recover, than as an enemy. This would help loved ones avoid getting depressed for long periods.