Depression
What is depression?
Depression is an issue affecting many people, up to 20% of population in the UK.
The typical symptoms of depression are as follows:
- Low mood, hopelessness
- Loss of interest and pleasure in things that you normally enjoy
- Feeling bad about yourself
- Feeling tired much of the time, low energy
- Sleep disturbance, either sleeping too much or too little
- Moving about much more or much less than usual
- Difficulties with concentration
- Changes in appetite
- Thoughts of suicide
If you think you may be depressed, it is important to consult your doctor or another health professional. If you recognise these symptoms in a family member or a friend, encourage them to seek help.
There are many different explanations for why we get depressed, including psychological, physiological and social. Depressed mood can also be a side-effect of some medications, nutritional imbalances or a consequence of a traumatic event, a loss or another change, or may accompany another mental health issue, such as post-traumatic stress, social anxiety or obsessive-compulsive disorder.
The treatment which is likely to be suggested by your doctor may include anti-depressants and cognitive behavioural therapy. Other treatments, including psychological or complementary therapies and nutritional interventions, are less well researched but are worth considering.
Sources of information and support
Saneline Tel. 08457 678 000
Mind Infoline Tel. 08457 660163
The Samaritans Tel. 08457 909090
Manic Depression Fellowship (MDF) Castle Works, 21 St Georges Road, London SE1 6ES
Tel. 020 7793 2600
SADA (Seasonal Affective Disorder Association) Tel. 01903 814 942
Association for Post-Natal Illness, 145 Dawes Road, Fulham, London SW6 7EB
Tel. 020 7386 0868
Cruse Bereavement Care, Cruse House, 126 Sheen Road, Richmond, Surrey TW9 1UR
Tel. 0870 167 1677
Self-help Resources
Centre for Clinical Interventions (Australia) - free CBT-based resources for depression, bipolar disorder, low self-esteem as well as other problems
Living Life to the Full - free CBT resources for depression and anxiety
EFT Universe - main EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques) website includes a number of articles and case studies on depression and a free manual and other resources for self-help
Uncommon Forum - a forum on psychological and self-help issues, including a popular Depression thread
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