Depression is more than feeling sad. It is a low mood or loss of interest that stays for weeks and starts to affect sleep, appetite, work and relationships. It is common, it is a medical condition, and it is treatable.
See a psychiatrist if low mood has lasted more than two weeks, is affecting work or home, or if you are having thoughts of self-harm. If someone is in immediate danger, call 112.
Antidepressants are not addictive in the way sleeping pills or alcohol can be. They are reduced slowly under a doctor’s guidance when it is time to stop, to avoid discontinuation symptoms.
Mild depression often responds to psychotherapy alone. For moderate or severe depression, therapy and medicines together usually work better. The choice is made with you after assessment.
This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Every person’s situation is different, so treatment is decided after a consultation.
You can come alone, or with a family member. What you share stays between you and the doctor.