Globally, over 280 million people suffer from depression – World Health Organisation
In any given week, 1 in 6 adults in the UK experiences a common mental health problem, such as depression or anxiety – Mind
‘Everyone can feel sad or blue when bad things happen. However everyday ‘blues’ or sadness is not depression’
This is low mood and can get better within a few days or weeks. It is usually possible to improve low mood with some minor changes such as getting more sleep, self-care or talking to a friend about something that is bothering you
However, it might be depression if the feelings become so bad that they interfere with your daily life. Or if they last for several weeks or months. When diagnosed with depression, you may be told it is ‘mild’ ‘moderate’ or ‘severe’ – this describes how your symptoms are affecting you and what treatment you will be offered
Depression affects people of all ages, genders and backgrounds. It can be triggered by various factors such as genetics, life events, traumatic events, chronic illness, or chemical imbalances in the brain
There are different types of depression, each different from the next, with its own characteristics and symptoms. You can read about them here:
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): also known as clinical depression and lasts for at least 2 weeks or longer. It affects your daily life. Some symptoms are detachment from loved ones, suicidal thoughts and feelings of worthlessness and guilt
- Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD): formerly known as Dysthymia, it is a mild, long-term form of depression, lasting for at least 2 years. Some symptoms are persistent feelings of sadness, consistently feeling irritated and angry and extreme self-doubt
- Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): a mood disorder usually occurring in winter when there is less sunlight. Some symptoms include fatigue, loneliness and anxiety, social withdrawal and detachment from close relationships
- Postpartum Depression (PPD): a mood affecting women after giving birth due to hormonal changes. Some symptoms include feeling disconnected to the baby, anxiety, and extreme sadness
- Bipolar Disorder: causes extreme sudden changes in mood, ranging from depressive, sadness to overwhelming happiness and excitement (manic behaviour). Some symptoms include paranoia, feeling demotivated, self-harming and extreme aggression
This video explains what depression is, how it might feel and where to get help: https://youtu.be/pjyFhcw59pE
Learning and mastering coping skills for depression is crucial because they empower people to take an active role in managing their symptoms. With effective coping skills, people can reduce the impact of depression on their daily lives, gain a sense of control, and improve their quality of life.
Depression is a multifaceted condition that requires a wide range of coping mechanisms. Common strategies include exercise, mindfulness, relaxation techniques, social support, and countering negative thoughts. You may need to tailor these strategies based on the specific type of depression you experience. For instance, the intensity and nature of major depressive disorder (MDD) can influence which tactics are most effective.
Here are some other coping skills: How to cope with depression - NHS
Our resources are a step towards helping you understand low mood and depression better and providing support information and services to help you:
Resource Links for Young People:
Depression | Signs and Symptoms | Mental Health | YoungMinds
Doing more for young people - Mind
Depression in children and young people - NHS
Resources Links for Adults:
Mental health problems | Depression explained - Mind - Mind
Depression - Causes, Symptoms, Types & Treatment
Depression | Mental Health Foundation
Resource Links for Parents and caregivers:
Helping someone with depression - Mind
Parents Mental Health Support | Advice for Your Child | YoungMinds
How to support a child with depression or anxiety | NSPCC
Additional resource links: