Depression, officially known as major depressive disorder, is a common mental health condition characterised by persistent low mood that can last weeks or longer, with symptoms that interfere in different areas of life and functioning.
In the UK, studies show that around 1 in 6 adults experience symptoms of depression each week, with women being twice as likely as men to have the condition. Rates of the condition jumped during the pandemic, from around 10% of adults in the UK before, to 17% in summer 2021.
Depression manifests in various ways, both emotionally and physically. Common symptoms include persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, guilt, low self-esteem, and a lack of interest in activities once enjoyed. Individuals may experience changes in behaviour (e.g., moving or speaking more slowly than usual), appetite or sleep patterns, low sex drive, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and even thoughts of self-harm or suicide. Sufferers may often experience other conditions such as anxiety alongside depression.
Common treatment avenues include talking therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), which is a clinically proven therapy that helps individuals understand and change their negative thought patterns. Medications such as antidepressants may also be prescribed to help balance chemicals in the brain. Additionally, lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and maintaining social connections, can significantly improve one’s mood.
Further information and resources
Recommended books
- “The Noonday Demon: An Anatomy of Depression” by Andrew Solomon – Documenting the realities of living with depression, Solomon draws on personal experience, but also takes a wider look at historical, social, biological, and medical aspects of the condition.
- “Reasons to Stay Alive” by Matt Haig – A powerful memoir that follows the author’s journey through the ups and downs of depression, learning valuable life lessons along the way.
- “Overcoming Depression 3rd Edition: A self-help guide using cognitive behavioural techniques” by Paul Gilbert – A comprehensive guide to understanding, managing, and overcoming depression and its associated symptoms, incorporating insights from the latest research. (Overcoming app available via the App and Google Play stores)
