Instead of "I am depressed", say "depression visits me" — problem loses grip.

Catch today's most painful automatic thought and break it into facts and alternative interpretations.

Drop your anxious thought down by asking "and what would that mean?" until you reach the core belief beneath it.

In depression, exit "wait until I feel better" to "do then feel".

Pre-decide a clear start and end time with yourself before any draining family visit.

Learn to distinguish normal teen mood swings from depression signs requiring professional intervention.