Depression can feel like an overwhelming and isolating
experience. It's important to remember that you're not alone and there are many people who share similar struggles. By understanding depression and reaching out for support, you can often take control of your mental health and forge a path towards well-being.
Depression is sometimes described as a mood disorder. In clinical
terms, the word depression, or major depression, differs from every day 'feeling down' in life in three main ways;
2) The continuous feeling after a two week period
3) The hindering of someone’s daily functioning
Mood, i.e. feeling angry, aggressive, irritable, anxious and restless
Emotional well-being, i.e. feeling sad, hopeless or emptiness
engaging in high-risk activities
Behaviour, i.e. loss of interest and pleasure in favourite activities, lethargic, suicidal thoughts, excessive drinking, drugs usage
Sexual interest, i.e. lack of sexual desire or performance
Cognitive abilities i.e. not able to concentrate so well, inability to complete tasks, delayed responses during conversations
Sleep patterns, i.e. restless sleep, excessive sleep, insomnia
Physical well-being, i.e. fatigue, pains, headaches, digestive problems.
Mood, i.e. feeling irritability
Emotional well-being, - feeling sad, anxious, hopeless or emptiness
Behaviour, - loss of interest in activities, not wanting to socialise, suicidal thoughts
Cognitive abilities, i.e. slower in their thinking and talking
Sleep patterns, i.e. broken sleep, oversleeping
Physical well-being, i.e. lower energy levels, fatigue, changes in their appetite, weight changes, aches, pains, headaches, increased cramps.
Family history. There is a higher risk of developing depression if there is a history of depression in the family
Early childhood trauma. Traumatic events can cause a person’s body to fear any stressful situations
Medical conditions. particular conditions may put you at higher risk, such as chronic illness, insomnia, chronic pain, or attention deficit
Hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Drug use. A history of drug or alcohol misuse can affect your risk of depression.
Low self-esteem or being self-critical
Personal history of mental illness
Particular medications
Life events, such as loss of a loved one, economic problems, or a divorce.
Source: Valencia Higuera and Kimberly Holland — Updated on February 11, 2020,
Healthline.www.healthline.com/health/depression[Accessed 18/09/20]
Monday: 10.00am-7.00pm
Tuesday: 10.00am-7.00pm
Weds: 9.00am - 5.00pm
Thurs: 10.00am-7.00pm
Friday: 9:00am - 5:00pm
Sat/Sun & Bank Holidays: Closed