Overcoming depression is difficult.  It is even more so if you’re struggling to do it alone.  Feelings of despair, not knowing who or where you can turn to can sometimes leave people feeling helpless and alone.  This can sometimes be dangerous, leading (not always) to suicidal thoughts, tendencies or actions.  When you try to think about exactly why you’re depressed, it may be due to financial reasons, a bad or unexpected breakup, the death of a loved one or friend, career/job issues or any other host of reasons.  The major issue when dealing with depression is knowing how to handle stressful situations.  Stress can and most certainly does have a negative effect on the human body, causing all sorts of physical problems and sickness.  Studies have been done over the years that quantitatively show that those who are genuinely happier, more upbeat people live longer, healthier lives.