Only the lonely .

People suffering from depression tend to focus on negative things in their lives rather than counting their blessings. One of the most important things to do is to make a list every day of good things in your life.

belief that we are at the mercy of our emotions. The reality is we choose our emotions and feelings. It just takes practice. The next time someone says or does something that triggers a negative emotion, step back, take a deep breath, and think of an emotion that will better serve you. For instance, you might choose to feel mercy or pity on someone who hurts you, rather than anger.

One of the best ways to overcome loneliness and isolation is to move outside yourself and take action to help others. Taking the focus away from you enables you to turn the lens away from you and all your trouble. Instead, point it at someone else who needs you.

Most importantly, take steps to release your own emotional baggage,” Dr. Nelson says.

“In many years of practice and teaching, I have seen countless seemingly miraculous healings as a result of people releasing trapped emotions. We saw lives changed, broken hearts healed, and relationships restored when people free themselves from the burdens of the past.”

Dr. Nelson is the author of “The Emotion Code.”

Used with permission.