Depression

What is depression?

Depression is much more than just feeling sad or down for a day or two. We all have times when we feel upset or low, but depression is different. When you have depression, you feel very sad, empty or hopeless for weeks or months at a time.

Some people think depression isn't a real illness or that you should just "pull yourself together". This isn't true. Depression is a real medical condition with real symptoms that affect how you feel, think and act.

The good news is that depression can be treated. With the right help and support, most people with depression get better.

What does depression feel like?

Depression affects everyone differently, but common signs include:

Emotional symptoms:

• Feeling sad, empty or hopeless most of the time
• Losing interest in things you used to enjoy
• Crying more than usual
• Feeling anxious or worried
• Feeling worthless or guilty

Physical symptoms:

• Feeling tired all the time, even after sleeping
• Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
• Not feeling hungry or eating too much
• No interest in sex
• Aches and pains with no clear cause
• Moving or speaking more slowly than usual

In your thoughts:

• Finding it hard to concentrate or make decisions
• Having negative thoughts about yourself
• Feeling like life isn't worth living

When should you speak to your GP?

You should speak to your GP if:

• You've been feeling low, sad or hopeless for more than two weeks
• These feelings are affecting your daily life, work or relationships
• You're not enjoying things you used to like

Seek urgent help if you:

• Have thoughts about hurting yourself
• Feel like life isn't worth living
• Think about suicide

If you're having thoughts of suicide, contact your GP immediately, call NHS 111, or go to your nearest A&E department.

What causes depression?

Sometimes there's a clear reason for depression, such as:

• Losing someone close to you
• Losing your job
• Going through a divorce
• Having a baby
• Being seriously ill

But depression can also happen without any obvious trigger. You might have depression if it runs in your family, but this doesn't mean you'll definitely get it.

How is depression treated?

Treatment depends on how severe your depression is:

Mild depression:

• Your GP might suggest waiting to see if you feel better on your own
• They'll check on you regularly (called "watchful waiting")
• You might be offered talking therapy or self-help materials

Moderate to severe depression:

• Talking therapy (like counselling)
• Medicine called antidepressants
• Often a combination of both

Severe depression:

• You might be referred to a specialist mental health team
• More intensive treatment and support

Things that can help

Along with medical treatment, these lifestyle changes often help:

• Regular exercise
• Eating healthy meals
• Getting enough sleep
• Cutting down on alcohol
• Stopping smoking
• Joining a support group
• Reading self-help books

Remember, depression is treatable. Don't wait to get help - the sooner you speak to your GP, the sooner you can start feeling better.

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Based on NHS.uk guidance. Written by Dr Krishnan Pasupathi, NHS GP.