James (age 22) grew up in a tough neighborhood. He dropped out of school and was arrested for gun use. With no education and felony record he can't find a job. He self-medicates by smoking pot, was recently diagnosed and is awaiting treatment.

Joey had some extended periods of low mood earlier in his life, but the first time he experienced serious depression was at age 25. He was stuck in patterns of socializing, drinking and minimal self-care that worked well for him while in college, but pulled him down in later years. Therapy, adopting more functional life skills, and regular contact with other people have been the biggest help.

Kate, age 21, grew up with a father who had untreated depression, and an unloving stepmother. When young, she realized she was gay and engaged briefly in self-harming. After some brief counseling Kate has used journaling to heal her depression.