What is depression? We all experience feelings of low mood from time to time. Depression is when you feel low for a very long time, and this affects your day-to-day life. Anyone can get depression, or become depressed. About 1 in 10 people have it. It is important to remember it is not your fault if you experience depression. People do not choose to feel low. Depression is not Something you can “snap out of” A sign of weakness
Causes of depression Depression does not have one main cause. Factors such as past experiences, diet, drug/alcohol use, brain chemicals, genetics can all increase the risk of someone developing depression. Symptoms Feeling low, irritable or anxious Having less energy Loss of interest in things you used to enjoy Poor concentration Feeling guilty or worthless Tiring easily Poor sleep patterns Eating more, or less than usual Fearing or thinking the worst will happen Muscle aches/ headaches Many of these overlap with symptoms of anxiety, it is not uncommon to experience both anxiety and depression together. Make a note of your own to help recognise when you are feeling low.
Something everyone experiences Something that will last forever
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