Suzanne-it is wonderful that you mentioned exercise as a means of helping depression.
Jola-I can tell you hands down from experience that it works.
I have issues with depression/anxiety attacks/OCD, and after doing a lot of research and talking with my doctor, I chose a couple years ago to do "exercise" therapy rather than take any medication. Cardio exercise like walking does WONDERS for depression. I can actually feel a difference if something goes on and I have to miss a day or two. I have also found that yoga is wonderful for my OCD/anxiety because of its stress relieving properties. It really works!!!!!
I would not get too hung up on the scale just yet. Sometimes you don't see the results right away when you first start. The first thing you should concentrate on is your exercise. Make sure you are getting your daily walks in.
The 1500 calorie diet-stick with that for a while, and journal what you are eating each day on a notebook or something. Make sure that you ar carefully calculating your calories, and that you are eating the proper serving sizes if you are eating packaged foods. Also make sure your food choices are healthy ones...and that you are counting calories in your drinks as well as your food. It WILL happen for you, you just have to be patient with it. I am glad that you finally decided to post! Welcome!!!!