General description
 
Depression is a very common illness, affecting most people at some point in their lives to varying extents. As with anxiety it can occur at any time. Depression is longer lasting than normal unhappiness, and needs to be treated. It is usually caused by life circumstances or social factors such as redundancy, relationship problems and suchlike.
 
People suffering with depression may often feel inadequate, they may find it difficult to socialise or even carry out day to day tasks. Recognising depression is not always easy as it is quite a broad category. Specific events such as post natal depression or post traumatic stress disorder are also included in this. In general if the symptoms last longer than two weeks then assistance should be sought.
 
Common symptoms

• Feelings of unhappiness
• Apathy
• Indecisiveness
• Tiredness
• Inability to concentrate
• Irritability
• Inability to sleep
• Loss of appetite or weight
• Loss of sex drive
• Low self esteem
• Inability to socialise
• Thoughts of suicide

Common treatments

• Talking Treatments
• Relaxation classes
• Psychotherapy
• Anti-depressants
• ECT

General Advice
 
Try to eat and sleep well, as well as seeking help