Depression

Depression is a common mental health condition that affects how you feel, think, and cope with everyday life. It is more than just feeling sad or having a bad week — when you are depressed, low mood and hopelessness can persist for weeks or months and start to interfere with work, relationships, and even basic self-care.

Around one in six people in the UK will experience depression at some point in their lives. It can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, or circumstances. It is not a sign of weakness, and it is not something you can simply "snap out of."

Common signs of depression:
- Persistent low mood or sadness, most days
- Loss of interest or pleasure in things you used to enjoy
- Feeling hopeless, worthless, or empty
- Fatigue and low energy, even after rest
- Changes in sleep — too much or too little
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Withdrawing from friends and family
- In some cases, thoughts of self-harm or suicide

It is worth knowing that depression often looks different in different people. Some feel tearful; others feel numb or irritable. Some cannot get out of bed; others keep going on the outside while falling apart on the inside.

Some things that can help:

Gentle movement. Exercise has strong evidence behind it — even a short walk each day can lift mood over time. You do not need to push yourself hard.

Stay connected. Depression makes you want to withdraw. Try to reach out to one person you trust, even briefly. Being around others can help, even if it does not feel like it in the moment.

Stick to a routine. Low mood can make days blur into one another. A loose structure — getting up at the same time, eating regularly — can help your nervous system feel more stable.

Small tasks, small wins. When everything feels overwhelming, break things into tiny steps: make a cup of tea, open the curtains, step outside for two minutes. Each one counts.

Reduce alcohol. Alcohol is a depressant and will worsen low mood, even if it feels like relief in the moment.

When to seek help:

If you have felt low for more than two weeks, or if depression is affecting your daily life, please speak to your GP. Effective treatments include talking therapies (especially CBT) and antidepressant medication. If you are having thoughts of suicide or self-harm, contact a crisis service straight away — see below.

UK support:
Samaritans — 116 123 (free, 24/7) or email [email protected]
CALM — 0800 58 58 58 (5pm–midnight)
Mind — 0300 123 3393 or text MIND to 85258
NHS Talking Therapies — www.nhs.uk/mental-health/talking-therapies

Sources: NHS (nhs.uk), Mind.org.uk, NICE guidelines on depression