What is depression?
Depression is a mental health condition that affects how you feel, think, and behave. It goes beyond feeling low for a few days, as it can last for weeks or longer, as well as starting to impact everyday life.
Depression can affect anyone, and it can happen for many different reasons. Sometimes there isn’t one clear cause.
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Feel low, sad or empty most of the time
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Lose interest or enjoyment in things you usually like
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Struggle with motivation, concentration or energy
Depression can make everyday tasks feel more difficult than usual. Support is available, and seeking help early can make a positive difference.
Signs and symptoms
Thoughts and feelings
💙 Ongoing low mood or sadness
🌫️ Feeling hopeless, helpless or worthless
📉 Low self-esteem or confidence
⚖️ Feeling guilty or self-critical
😟 Anxiety, irritability, or frustration
Behaviour and daily life
🎯 Losing interest in hobbies, socialising, or studies
🚪 Avoiding friends, lectures or activities
🧠 Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
📚 Finding it hard to keep up with studies or responsibilities
Physical symptoms
🔋 Feeling tired or low in energy
🌙 Sleep problems
🍽️ Changes in appetite or weight
If these symptoms last two weeks or more and affect your daily life, it could be depression and it’s important to seek support.
NHS Depression Self-Help Guide
The NHS Inform Depression Self-Help Guide provides practical information and evidence-based techniques to help you understand and manage symptoms of depression.
- ✓ Helps you recognise symptoms of depression
- ✓ Explains how depression works
- ✓ Uses Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) techniques to help manage negative thoughts and behaviour patterns
What may help
Small steps can help manage symptoms alongside professional support.
👥 Stay connected with friends, family or peers
📅 Create a simple routine (sleep, meals, study time)
🚶 Being active - even gentle movement can support mood
🧩 Break tasks down into manageable steps
💚 Be patient with yourself
Mood Support Resources
Explore NHS Every Mind Matters resources for practical wellbeing advice, mood support and self-help tools.
Explore Resources
Further support
You don’t have to manage this alone. Talking to someone can make a huge difference.
Access NHS support
- 🏥 Contact your GP for advice and support
- 💬 Self-refer to NHS talking therapies (e.g. CBT or counselling)
- 📞 Call NHS 111 for urgent support
Urgent support
If you are struggling to keep yourself safe or having thoughts about harming yourself:
- 🚨 Call 999 (emergency)
- 📞 Call NHS 111
- ☎️ Contact Samaritans (116 123), available 24/7