What is depression?

"Everything seemed so bleak. I couldn’t concentrate on anything, not even reading or watching TV. "

"Simple things like getting out of bed and getting in the shower were hard to do and seemed so futile"

Everyone feels down, sad or miserable from time to time. This may be because something has happened to make them feel this way, such as the loss of a loved one, or it may be difficult to pinpoint the exact reason. Many people find that these feelings pass after a short time but, for others, they seem to be present all the time or return again and again. Negative feelings can become so strong and overwhelming they affect daily living.  Severe depression can be life-threatening because it can make people feel that everything is meaningless. When a person feels this way, it is important to know that, alongside healthcare, there is also a lot of information and useful links and resources available to help them get well again.

What depression is not

Depression is not a sign of weakness or a character flaw.  When you are depressed you may have a negative view of yourself, blaming yourself for all the shortcomings that you think you have.  It may help to to remember that many capable, intelligent and accomplished people have experienced depression at one time or another.