Depression is a mental disorder which affects millions of people worldwide and is characterized by an inability to function in life. The question of nature vs. nurture is a continous debate, but the true question should address how to treat a depressed person. There are many aspects to depression treatment, from identifying symptoms and triggers to learning about proper coping skills. Successful treatment is contigent upon identifying symptoms of depression. These are signs which indicate a depressive state. Loss of appetite or eating too much, withdrawing from social activities or family, and sudden loss of interest in usual daily activities are symptoms that should be addressed immediately. External factors such as a death in the family or workplace conflict are major catalysts to depression. Depression treatment varies with each individual, but most seek some form of counseling in a treatment facility. Here, patients are supervised by caring staff who are interested in their recovery and safety. These facilities redirect their views that depression is just a mood to realizing that it is a mental illness. Therapeutic groups help patients learn valuable life skills such as assertiveness training and coping strategies. Activity group is an hour long session that relates a fun game or exercise to a life lesson. Patients are expected to attend all groups, as they are a valuable aspect to their treatment. Not everyone responds to the same treatment, and some rely on medication to regulate their disorder. While medication is a necessary component of depression treatment, it is important to realize that medication should never be a substitute for positive coping skills. Lastly, many are starting to seek other exercises in an effort to heal the spirit. Yoga, Martial Arts, and accupuncture are eastern philosophies that incorporate breathing exercises and meditation to get in touch with the spirit. This concept is centered around the idea that the mind directly affects the body. Depression treatment is more than relying on drugs to achieve a good feeling. Successful depression treatment involves introspection about symptoms and appropriate coping strategies. While treatment plans differ, the common denominator in recovery is always a strong desire to live a better quality of life.