It is important to know that depression is not a sign of weakness or something you can easily ‘snap out of’ by ‘pulling yourself together’. The positive news is that with the right treatment and support the majority of people make a full recovery.

Most of us can feel sad or low at times and will have experienced the ‘blues’ or felt low in mood for a few days. Clinical depression however is more than that and lasts for at least two weeks, affecting a person’s behaviour, emotions and ability to process thoughts. It can also impact on your work and relationships and commonly occurs in conjunction with anxiety. In England depression affects 3% of women and 2% of men at any one time

Depression can affect us in a variety of ways but most commonly if you are suffering with depression you will have at least two of the below symptoms for at least two weeks.

Not everyone experiences all of these symptoms and people with severe depression will experience more of the symptoms than those who are mildly depressed.  In can be difficult to recognise, acknowledge or know when you’re feeling depressed.

What are the symptoms of depression?

Depression affects people in different ways. It can affect your mind, body and behaviour.

You might feel:

• sad, upset or tearful
• guilty or worthless
• restless or irritable
• empty and numb
• lacking in self-confidence and self-esteem
• unable to enjoy things that usually bring you pleasure
• helpless or hopeless
• anxious or worried
• suicidal or want to hurt yourself

Physical symptoms can include:

• tiredness and lack of energy
• moving or speaking more slowly
• sleep problems: finding it hard to get to sleep or waking up very early
• changes in your weight or appetite
• constipation
• no sex drive and/or sexual problems
• unexplained aches and pains

You might behave differently. You may:

• avoid other people, even your close friends
• find it hard to function at work, college or school
• find it difficult to make decisions or think clearly
• be unable to concentrate or remember things

Some people experience psychosis during a severe episode of depression. This means you may see or hear things that aren’t there or believe things that aren’t true.