How do I become more confident and escape the depressive-cycle?
364464
they say you want to feel confident be confident. Fake it till you make it. In other words pick yourself up by the shirtsleeves and put yourself out there. Get over your fears and go on with life.
1036272
i used to be the same way 24/7....i still have my phases on and off\ni surround myself with people that make me happy, my friends make me laugh so much no matter how depressed and sad i'm feeling on the inside\njust take it one day at a time, spend days out shopping and stay away from the house as long as you can...then spend some days at home relaxing and giving yourself some self-reflection time\nthis has helped me, i hope it will help you too
389304
Start giving yourself Brownie points for every good choice you make. Confidence and self-esteem are earned, nobody is born just possessing them. Every time you make someone smile, remind yourself that you have that ability. Do your work honestly and well. Treat people the way you want to be treated. Give others sincere compliments and don't always expect others to set your standards of decency or to make you happy. Remember, you're not transparent. People can't tell how you're feeling. Eventually, feeling confident will become second nature. But above all, be kind to yourself and others. And just have fun!
619949
I was much like you, but I have gained alot of confidence by working out at a gym, playing tennis, taking aerobics, karate, going for a run...Any physical activity is good, it releases chemicals from the brain that help releave stress and make you feel better. Also,in public you could try helping someone less fortunate and giving compliments to people.
755267
try to think one of the following:\n1) I am everything. No one is greater than me.\nOR\n2) I am nothing. Whatever happens it them happen in it's own way. I am not going to worry abt them. There is some One (unknown to you) takes of these.\n\nIf u feel one of the above there won't be any depression. U become lighter. All u see is just peace.
1124781
Try Confidence Club.com, the cds they sell may be useful, either that or try a confidence coach, maybe even some counselling.  I know exactly how you feel and I have tried all the "positive thinking" techniques but sometimes you do need a little help.
572240
The best advice that you can get in a situation like this is going to come from a trained professional--a therapist.  It just might help you find a way to excel on your own, and find the confidence to be anything that you want to be.  Gl, be strong!
453915
I remember being 19 and not feeling confident.  That's okay, the confdence will develop as you mature.  Stay focused on the positive aspects of your life and continue to reach for your goals and dreams.  Be patient with yourself.  You sound like an intelligent person who will end up on her feet.
911633
practice (it's what makes you confident)\nwatch singing contests and learn from their mistakes and techniques)\nstay away from cold drinks\nsing with your heart
244200
First... What are you obsessed about? What's making you depressed? Is it material or mental? Are you afraid of failing? Are you shy or confused about what your next move should be? Are you overwhelmed by the pace of life? \n\nWrite down all of your fears and anxieties (even the things you dislike and hate). This will make your thoughts tangible and concrete. After you've created that list. Get advice on how you should TRY to resolve each "problem". Some of those things won't be a big deal at all once you see it written down on paper. Do it step-by-step - one at a time. Don't make a stew out of it - that'll only create a whole lot of WORK you won't wanna do. It'll be too much to handle! \n\nWork on these issues one at time (if they're related - work on two at the most) with a good friend, an Internet Buddy, or whoever and work on them a little at a time. Learn to make sacrifices. Life is full of risk and we are all taking chances everyday whether we're driving, shopping, or sitting at home. Anything can happen or jump-off in a split second. This is reality. You can't let your fears control you or how you live. They have to help you make good decisions and useful choices so that you can grow and succeed and move forward in life. \n\nDon't feel bad for your current situation if it sucks - This is a learning and growing experience. Be angry. Be Motivated! Learn how to change it little by little. It make take a year or so for you get where you want to be but you're gonna have to work at it. Start right now. Make a change in your life. Change yourself. Change the way you think. Change the way you have been doing things. Change your attitude. And MOVE FORWARD.\n\nAnother thing.\n\nIf there are people in you life who are dictating your actions, you have to learn to be more assertive. Speak your mind. Don't be afraid to say what you like and what you don't like. Don't be afraid to make your own POSITIVE choices. And don't be afraid to leave people alone who drag you down. Make some sacrifices. Sacrifices hurt but if you live right (and take some risks), the blessings are much more rewarding.\n\nLove yourself first because if there is no YOU, how can YOU love anyone else? \n\nMake that list and come back.
698066
Maybe you've just become so used to it you don't know how to get away from it, maybe the people in your life are making you feel very reliant on them, if its really bothering you then get a few books from the library on how to be assertive and more confident, the sooner you break away from relying on others the more you will be yourself, good luck.
369026
First, I suggest that you know the difference between depression and frustration.\n\nTo do this, I suggest that you first talk with a big, fat, ugly male psychologist for 3 sessions. He will be able to pin-point exactly where you are, at the present time.\n\nThen, you should go to a very trim and fit male psychologist for another 3 times so he will be able to create a suitable path for your future growth. \n\nThen you should go to a school and take 3 courses on psychology so you will better understand how to help other people who are desperately in need of a helping hand.\n\nAfter all of that.......finding a nice, attractive female psychologist to date should be easier because you will be less depressed, more knowledgeable and finally, in a position to talk with her on a level she may find interesting.\n\nBoth of you can then go out and do some community work and help others.
75468
try a few new things. as you bebecome sucessful at small tasks your confidence will grow
285210
Just have courage and you'll start to fell more confident in yourself
879581
Go volunteer at the Red Cross or local shelter. If you love animals get involved in rescue work. You will find that you are taken out of your depression a lot because you are helping others and thinking of them. They will be so grateful to you.\nThe people who you work with will invite you to share in their hobbies. Take them up on it, go all the time, you will find a whole new world.\nAnd don't say you're not good at anything. That is a lie straight from the devil. God made you. He made you perfectly and loves you perfectly. It is through us not being that great ourselves that the talents that God gave us begin to shine.\nGirl, let your light shine!
601433
Try to change things a little at a time - just baby steps. Look for a new role within your work place or maybe a new job. Try to go out once a week, take up an exercise class with friends or go by yourself and try to meet new people.  Look for spirituality, or find something that keeps your soul alive.\nTake up a class or a hobby, find something different or new to do every day. Invite a friend over for dinner, got out for dinner and invite a friend or two.\nTry cognitive behavioural therapy (it can really really help) and look at changing your anti-depressants.\nBest of luck and I hope all goes well in the future...
17314
I've gone through spells of depression that have lasted months.  The only thing that got me through was prayer and friendship.  I'm not one who goes to church every week nor do I talk continuously about my spirituality but I can say that when I have been struggling with dark thoughts I pray and talk to friends and somehow I get past it.  In your new city, make yourself get up early each morning and get fixed up.  When you get out of the house you will immediately feel a little bit better.  Look your best and that will help you to feel more confident.  Call on a friend from home, maybe a sibling or close family member when you feel your lowest.  One of my closest friends lives miles away and her friendship still gives me a great deal of support.  Just talk to someone and tell them the truth about what is going on inside.  It will be a great release and you will not be going through it alone.  Remember to pray for yourself, ask for courage and strength of heart..I promise that you will be better before you know it.