Depression

What is depression?

It is normal to feel low or fed up from time to time. If a low mood doesn’t go away it can be a sign of depression. Signs and symptoms of depression vary. Everyone’s experience will be different. If any of the signs or symptoms listed below last more than a few week then seek advice. See our self-help advice section below.

People describe a range of symptoms that are associated with depression, these include:

• Feeling sad or irritable and angry
• A sense of loss
• Tearful
• No longer enjoying the things that used to make you happy
• Guilty and a sense that you are worthless, unlovable
• Lack of confidence and self esteem
• Feeling hopeless about the future
• Thoughts of suicide and self-harm
• Feeling very tired/lacking energy

These feelings can lead to changes in the way we behave, such as

• Not getting out of bed
• Avoiding social contact
• Not eating or comfort eating
• Becoming restless and agitated or struggling to move
• Increase use of alcohol, cigarettes, drugs
• Poor concentration and memory

Self-help advice to manage depression

• Find out more about depression and how it can be managed. See our self-help resources below.
• Learn new skills to manage depression. See our self-help courses below.
• You may find it helpful to get involved in activities going on in your local area. Find out what’s going on in your area by visiting our in your area page.
• There are simple things we can all do to help look after our mental health. For example some people find being active really helpful in managing their depression. Visit our looking after yourself section for more information and advice.
• You don’t need to experience these feelings alone. Talk to someone you trust or see our ‘helplines’ section below. And if you or someone you know need urgent help – go to our urgent help page immediately.

If you need further help managing depression

If the information, advice, resources and courses on this page have not been helpful and/or you think you need more help, there are many free support services available.

If you live in the Aneurin Bevan University Health Board area, and are aged over 18, you can make an appointment with a Psychological Health Practitioner (PHP) or GP by contacting your local GP surgery. PHPs are NHS mental health practitioners who provide a free service for people experiencing mild to moderate mental health problems.

If you are under 18 or worried about someone aged under 18 and need urgent advice/self-referral to local mental health and wellbeing services in the Aneurin Bevan University Health Board area, contact SPACE-Wellbeing.

Or alternatively contact another approved helpline. Some services are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.