Depression in Adults
A guide to understanding and managing depression.
This is Not a Diagnostic Tool
What is Depression?
Depression is more than simply feeling unhappy or fed up for a few days. It's a real illness with real symptoms where you feel persistently sad for weeks or months, rather than just a few days.
Depression is not a sign of weakness or something you can "snap out of". The good news is that with the right treatment and support, most people can make a full recovery.
Symptoms of Depression
Psychological Symptoms
- Lasting feelings of unhappiness and hopelessness.
- Losing interest in things you used to enjoy.
- Feeling very tearful.
- Many people with depression also have symptoms of anxiety.
Physical Symptoms
- Feeling constantly tired.
- Sleeping badly.
- Having no appetite or sex drive.
- Various aches and pains.
Getting Help and Treatment
When to see a doctor
It's best not to delay seeking help for depression. The sooner you see a GP, the sooner you can be on the way to recovery.
Treatment Options
Treatment can involve a combination of lifestyle changes (like exercise), talking therapies (like CBT), and medicine. Your GP will recommend treatment based on how severe your depression is.
What Causes Depression?
Sometimes there's a trigger, like a life-changing event (bereavement, job loss). People with a family history of depression are more likely to experience it. But you can also become depressed for no obvious reason.