Everyone feels down from time to time. If these feelings are severe or last a long time, you may be experiencing depression.
Depression is a mood disorder which can cause feelings of hopelessness or helplessness and leave you finding it hard to cope day to day.
Depression is increasingly common; it is thought that one in ten adults in the population are affected, while between 5% and 10% of adolescents can experience symptoms also. It has a number of possible causes, such as our genetic make-up or hormonal changes. Significant life events can also play a part in triggering periods of depression, including work or exam stress, financial strain, or family change.
While it is normal to go through sadness or to lose interest or pleasure in the things you usually enjoy, these feelings generally last just a short time. If they feel very strong for you or go on for two weeks or more, you could be going through depression: talk to someone you trust and speak with your GP for advice.
Get more information
Depression Information Booklet
