Firstly, that I have to own it before I can manage it. So I had to practice saying " I'm Daniel, I suffer depression!"
Secondly and more recently that it's ok to cry. When I learnt that crying was the body's natural response and not weakness I opened myself to a whole new understanding of my empathic personality and realised I was often taking on the mood of others around me, feeling down because they were down. It wasn't even my "down" and so I am now often able to cry for them and move on.
Thirdly, that I'm not broken. This is me. I can still bring value to my interactions with others.

Take baby steps.
Don't try push yourself too hard.

take your medication regardless of how you are feeling... if in therapy, go and vent away they are there to help if not find a friend/family member who is compassionate and understands the hell you are going through. If you are lucky enough to have support let them help you even when all you want to do is hide away from the world. As my psychologist said.."it is a tough world out there and anyone who says it isn't is just kidding themselves. You are going to have good days and bad days... take things a day at a time and never ever think you are a failure.." ... all I can say to all of you who are struggling never give up

My first therapist told me to "Never make a life changing decision when in the midst of depressive episode." This advice has helped me through many down period.

Do not stop talking your medication or you will become very depressed If I stopped talking my medication I would become very depressed and unable to function at all. I hope this helps you from being so depressed. Have a great day everyone.