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Understanding Depression
Depression is a mental health condition that affects the whole person – your thoughts, feelings and behaviours. Although everyone feels sad from time to time, depression is different in that it is persistent and can last for weeks or longer. Depression can affect people in different ways.
Are you experiencing any of these typical symptoms:
​Everyone experiences symptoms differently. These are common but not exhaustive.
You are not alone.
1 in 5
people have received an official diagnosis of depression.
1 in 10
under the age of 25 years have not been diagnosed but believe they are currently experiencing depression.
Source: Aware National Survey 2024
Self-help For Depression
There are some positive coping skills and strategies which can be useful in dealing with depression.
Setting small daily goals for yourself. These goals should be manageable, realistic, and something you can control (go for a walk, meet a friend, go for a coffee etc.). Don’t wait until you feel better to do something - tell yourself you will do something for a specific time, and take it from there.
Regular exercise is helpful for reducing stress, improving sleep and low mood.
Try to keep a regular sleep schedule. This may help avoid feeling sleepy during the day which in turn affects nighttime sleep.
Pay attention to your diet. Eating healthy by reducing fat and increasing nutrients can reduce depression symptoms.
Interaction with others can help lessen depressive symptoms and increases a sense of well-being.
