Depressive Symptoms

People sometimes say they are "depressed" when they are feeling low or a bit miserable. In most cases these people will find they start feeling good about themselves and their lives again soon.

However, some people find that they cannot shake off their gloomy feelings - even when good things happen they still feel down.

In other cases, people may start feeling depressed for no reason at all. At first they may feel a bit down, and find it hard getting through the day. As their depression gets worse, they may find it so hard to get motivated that they can hardly even get out of bed in the morning.

When this happens, it means someone is probably suffering from "major depression" or a "depressive disorder".

Having depression is not a sign of weakness. It is often a direct result of a build-up of problems or stress. Depression is common. It can be serious - but it can be treated.

How common is depression?

People of all ages, cultures and backgrounds experience depression. Depression is more common than people think. There are about as many people with depression as there are people with asthma. At some stage in their life, about one in seven people will experience a bout of depression. Nearly everyone will know someone who has had depression.

Some people feel embarrassed about getting help for depression, and think they should just keep going until they feel better. In some cases, people might not even know they have depression, but think there is something else wrong with them.

Getting help for depression isn't a sign of weakness - as with any illness it's important to find out ways of making you better. A doctor, nurse or counsellor will be able to help you. If you find it easier, you could always ask a friend or someone from your family/whanau to go with you when you go to get help.

Source:
National Advisory Committee on Health & Disability