Most depressed adolescents do not access medical care for symptoms, yet many improve without professional intervention. While several self-help interventions have empirical support, teens' non-directed efforts to reduce symptoms are not documented. We reviewed 14 depressed adolescents' reports of attempts to reduce depressive symptoms. Results indicate social connection and behavioral activation were the most common interventions, with less frequent mentions of cognitive restructuring, problem solving, emotional expression, risky behaviors, and non-productive activities. Results indicate participants' attempt to reduce depressive symptoms by using techniques that have empirical support for their effectiveness. Providers can encourage teens' attempts to reduce symptoms with effective activities.