Living with depression: what to know

Depression can affect mood, motivation, sleep, appetite, concentration and energy. Some people feel anxious or irritable rather than simply sad. Difficulty sleeping, daytime sleepiness and fatigue can reinforce each other, making ordinary tasks harder. Depression is not a personal failure, and symptoms can change over time. A clinician can also check for physical conditions, medicines or substance use that may be contributing.

Follow the treatment plan you agree with, whether it includes talking therapy, medicine, or both, and discuss unwanted effects before stopping medicine. Set small routines around getting up, eating, movement, sleep and contact with a trusted person; completing one manageable task is meaningful progress. Keep appointments and tell your clinician if concentration, anxiety or sleep changes. If possible, share a safety plan with someone you trust, including who to contact during a crisis.

Seek emergency help now if you may harm yourself, cannot keep yourself safe, hear commands to hurt yourself or someone else, or feel detached from reality. If thoughts of death or self-harm are becoming more frequent, contact a clinician urgently and tell a trusted person today; do not stay alone if you feel at immediate risk. Seek prompt advice for a sudden severe change in sleep, energy, behaviour or mood.

Ask: Which treatment options fit my symptoms and preferences? When should improvement be reviewed? What side effects should I report? Could my sleep or another health problem be affecting my mood? What is my crisis plan, and who can I contact outside appointments?