My father was a psychiatrist and he always felt getting to the bottom of depression was first to check if the patient lacked some nutrient. He would have his patients do a complete blood test and he tested a number of items that were not necessary tested by the family doctor. Once he found the patient's physical deficiencies - lack of iodine or some other trace element, or any other physical body condition that could be resolved, would often lead to attitude improvements. Then he would work on improving the patient's self esteem, their ability to set healthy goals, get out in the sun and move around. Often his sessions were outside where they would walk talk. When he did not have sessions, he would sit with the patients and teach them how to play chess. He would say the best things to do for mental health was to get your body as healthy as possible, supplement any deficient nutrients, get a positive support network, move close to the bay, buy a boat & learn how to fish. He worked in the VA hospital - mostly male patients. They loved him at the hospital - his sessions were often outside "for a walk and a talk".  He would almost always be available for a long walk or a cup of coffee. He would tell his patience, we will get through this - the days will be brighter.  Not uncommon to hear "Hey, Doc, you got time for a walk?". He would say to me - if you have done something that bothers you - put steps in place to correct the situation, don't do it again and do not let guilt own you - apologize if you need to and then work to make you stronger and things will start to fall into place. As would b expected - he was a very good listener and a sweet, kind man. He died when I was young & decades later - I still miss him.