Depression
NHS 25 March 2026
What is Depression?
Depression is a common mental health condition characterised by persistent low mood, loss of interest or pleasure, and a range of other psychological and physical symptoms. It affects around 1 in 10 people in the UK at some point in their lives.
Symptoms
Psychological symptoms:
- Continuous low mood or sadness
- Feeling hopeless and helpless
- Low self-esteem
- Feeling tearful
- Feeling guilt-ridden
- Feeling irritable and intolerant of others
- Having no motivation or interest in things
- Difficulty making decisions
- Not getting any enjoyment out of life
- Thoughts of harming yourself or suicide
Physical symptoms:
- Moving or speaking more slowly than usual
- Change in appetite or weight (usually decreased)
- Constipation
- Unexplained aches and pains
- Lack of energy
- Low sex drive (loss of libido)
- Changes to your menstrual cycle
- Disturbed sleep (insomnia or sleeping too much)
Treatment
Depression is highly treatable. Common treatments include:
- Talking therapies — Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is the most commonly recommended; also counselling and interpersonal therapy
- Antidepressants — SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) like sertraline or fluoxetine are most commonly prescribed
- Lifestyle changes — regular exercise, good sleep hygiene, reducing alcohol
- Combination of the above — often most effective for moderate to severe depression
Getting Help
If you think you might be depressed, see your GP. If you are in crisis, call Samaritans on 116 123 (free, 24 hours), or text SHOUT to 85258.