Depression - The Source

“Every day may not be good, but there’s something good in every day.”

On this page we cover:

What is depression?
What does it feel like?
Tips
Help

What is depression?

Depression affects anyone, at any time, for any reason. It’s a constant feeling of sadness that won’t go away.

Depression can affect:

how you think,
how you feel,
how you behave towards family and friends.

You can’t always tell if someone is struggling with depression as they may not look depressed.

What does depression feel like?

You may notice these signs and feelings:

Feeling hopeless
No motivation to do things
You can’t focus
Sadness and low mood
Tiredness
You have lost interest and enjoyment in the things that you normally like doing.

You might also experience aches and pains or feel anxious too.

This video captures the shared experiences of young people using their own words to explain what struggling with depression feels like.

For managing low mood and depression

These are some things you can do to improve your mood:

Stay connected with family and friends.
Do something you enjoy – can be small happy things – they all add up.
Have a bedtime routine – go to bed and wake up at the same time.
Eat healthier – food is mood.
Keep active – with sport, going for a walk/run, or dancing!
Express your feelings creatively – through art, a diary, poems, lyrics, and crafts.
Look after yourself – take a bath, read a book, write a list, take a break, cook something nice for yourself.

Do you know?

A 30 minute walk, 5 times a week, that raises your heart rate, has the same effect as an antidepressant but with no side effects! 

Read more about the 'Mind and Movement' connection.