Depression
Are you struggling with depression?
Depression is somewhat different to feeling sad and can vary between people. Often, those who are affected by depression feel low, flat or ‘empty’ with these feelings lasting for two weeks or longer. Depression is often accompanied by other symptoms, such as loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, or feeling very tired and demotivated. People will usually have many negative thoughts, about themselves and things going on around them, and might find that they are less interested in what they used to enjoy. Others might experience more of a ‘grumpy’ or irritable mood.
On occasion, people might notice they experience thoughts about ending their life, or harming themselves; whilst some degree of suicidal thoughts can be a common experience in depression, it is always important to seek help if you feel this way – emergency or crisis support is available 24/7, from either your GP, Calling NHS 111 or by calling the Samaritans on 116123 (a freephone number)
Sometimes, left untreated, depression can be last a long time, and might come and go.
When to seek treatment for depression
How does depression affect people?
Depression can affect people in many ways. People might feel low in confidence, have a negative view of themselves, or be struggling with the very real physical impact of depression – for example, feeling like you have no appetite, or are much hungrier than usual, or finding that you are waking early in the morning or struggling to get to sleep at all. People often find it much harder to motivate themselves to do things and sometimes this can also make them feel worse. Feeling ‘flat’, or empty, is also something people commonly report when they are feeling depressed, as well as feeling more ‘emotional’ than usual (this could be feeling more tearful, or irritable).
Anyone who has experienced low mood for some time, or who feels uninterested in life and enjoyable activities, or who is generally finding they are snappier and more irritable, may benefit from seeking treatment for depression. Sometimes, it might not be so obvious as feeling sad – people might feel more irritable than normal. Other signs you might want to seek treatment may be if you are noticing you are becoming more withdrawn, not taking part in activities you used to enjoy or generally feeling lower, or down than usual.
It is always important, as mentioned above, that you seek emergency crisis support if you are feeling suicidal. If you feel this way, please call Samaritans on 116123, NHS 111, or call 999.
Begin your journey
You must be aged 18 years or above to access our therapy services.