I think depression runs in my family. My mom has been depressed most of my life and my bother has also went through a depression stage. My mom is a very negative person and has always kind of brought me down and discouraged me from doing things. She wouldn't do it intentionally, it was more of her way of looking out for me. So I haven't had much encouragement or positive influence throughout my life. This has made me be very negative as well. I don't get very excited about things or feel like anything is really important. But as I sit here and watch a daily talk show and see these women that look bright and cheerful, and full of energy it makes me so envious, because that is exactly how I want to be. Since depression runs in my family will I also have this depressing outlook or are there really things to do that will change this persona I have? Now I don't have severe depression or anything, I'm just down in the dumps most of the time. I really want to take steps to change my life I just really don't know where to start. Suggestions?