What is depression?

Everyone has ups and downs. Sometimes you might feel a bit low, for lots of different reasons. People may say that they are feeling depressed when they are feeling down, but this does not always mean that they have depression.

Depression is a long lasting low mood disorder. It affects your ability to do everyday things, feel pleasure or take interest in activities. Depression can affect people of any age, including children. It is one of the most common mental illnesses.

It is normal to feel low if something upsetting has happened in your life and most of the time these feelings get better over time with the support of the people closest to you. If you’ve been feeling like this for a while, or it has been affecting your life in a serious way, you should visit your doctor. If you’re scared about going by yourself, you could ask a friend, parent or carer to go with you. Your doctor will be able to listen to how you’re feeling and talk you through the types of support that could help. You can also learn more and Get Help here.