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Depression & Low Mood

What is Depression?

Feeling low, sad, or fed up at times is a normal part of being human—particularly during periods of stress, loss, or change. However, when these feelings persist, deepen, and begin to interfere with daily life, this may indicate depression.

 

Depression is more than just feeling sad. It is a common and treatable mental health condition that affects how you think, feel, and function.

 

Typically, depression is considered when symptoms last for two weeks or more and represent a noticeable change from your usual self.

Common Signs and Symptoms

People experience depression in different ways, but common symptoms include:

 

Emotional symptoms

  • Persistent low mood or sadness

  • Feelings of hopelessness or helplessness

  • Guilt, shame, or worthlessness

  • Irritability or emotional numbness

 

Physical symptoms

  • Fatigue or low energy

  • Sleep difficulties (e.g. insomnia, early waking, or oversleeping)

  • Changes in appetite (eating more or less)

  • Reduced sex drive

  • General aches and pains

 

Cognitive symptoms

  • Negative, self-critical thoughts

  • Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

  • Poor memory

  • Loss of motivation

 

Behavioural symptoms

  • Loss of interest or pleasure in activities

  • Withdrawing from others or isolating yourself

  • Reduced activity levels

  • Difficulty keeping up with work or responsibilities

 

More severe symptoms

  • Thoughts of death or suicide

 

If you are experiencing these thoughts, it’s important to seek support as soon as possible. If you are at risk or are in crisis please contact your GP, NHS 111, GP out of hours service, attend A&E, or call The Samaritans on 116 123 (UK).

Understanding Depression

Depression is influenced by a combination of factors, including:

  • Life events (e.g. loss, stress, trauma)

  • Biological factors

  • Thinking patterns (e.g. self-criticism, negative bias)

  • Behavioural changes (e.g. withdrawal, inactivity)

 

It can occur on its own or alongside other difficulties such as:

 

Some people may also turn to alcohol or substances as a way of coping, which can unintentionally maintain or worsen symptoms.

How Common is Depression?

  • Depression is one of the most common mental health conditions worldwide

  • In the UK, around 1 in 6 adults report experiencing symptoms of depression at any given time

  • Most people will experience at least one period of significant low mood in their lifetime

It affects people of all ages and backgrounds

What Treatment do we offer?

Depression is highly treatable, and many people experience significant improvement with the right support.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a first-line, evidence-based treatment recommended by NICE. It focuses on:

  • Identifying and challenging unhelpful thoughts and beliefs

  • Breaking cycles of withdrawal and inactivity

  • Increasing engagement in meaningful activities

  • Developing practical coping strategies

 

A core component of CBT is Behavioural Activation (BA) which focuses specifically on:

  • Gradually increasing activity levels

  • Reintroducing routine, structure, and pleasure

  • Reducing avoidance patterns

 

We may also take an interpersonal approach which focuses on:

  • Improving communication and relationships

  • Addressing interpersonal stressors (e.g. conflict, loss, role changes)

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

ACT helps individuals to:

  • Reduce the struggle with difficult thoughts and feelings

  • Build a life guided by values and meaning

  • Increase psychological flexibility

Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT)

Particularly helpful where depression involves high levels of self-criticism. It supports:

  • Developing self-compassion

  • Reducing shame and harsh self-judgement

  • Building emotional resilience

How Therapy Can Help

Therapy provides a supportive and non-judgemental space to:

  • Understand what is contributing to your depression

  • Break unhelpful patterns that maintain low mood

  • Rebuild motivation, confidence, and routine

  • Improve relationships and support networks

  • Develop tools to manage future setbacks

Recovery

Recovery from depression is not always immediate, and progress can be gradual. However, with the right support, many people find that they are able to:

  • Feel more like themselves again

  • Regain enjoyment and interest in life

  • Improve energy and motivation

  • Develop a more balanced and compassionate way of thinking

 

Even if things feel stuck or overwhelming right now, change is possible.

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