The classes and the homework assignments can teach you how to be more fully
aware and present in each moment of life. The good news is that this makes life more
interesting, vivid, and fulfilling. On the other hand, this means facing what is present,
even when it is unpleasant and difficult. In practice, you will find that turning to face
and acknowledge difficulties is the most effective way, in the long run, to reduce unhappiness.
It is also central to preventing further depression. Seeing unpleasant feelings,
thoughts, or experiences clearly, as they arise, means that you will be in much better
shape to “nip them in the bud,” before they progress to more intense or persistent
depressions.