What should you know about struggling with depression?

Depression may involve persistent sadness, emptiness, loss of interest, guilt, hopelessness, irritability, or feeling slowed down. Some people sleep much more; others develop Difficulty Sleeping or Insomnia. Fatigue, Daytime Sleepiness, Difficulty Concentrating, and Feeling Anxious can make work, study, self-care, and relationships harder. Symptoms can be physical as well as emotional, and they may not look the same every day. A health professional can assess mood, sleep, physical health, alcohol or drug use, and medicines before suggesting a plan.

Arrange an appointment with a doctor or mental health professional, especially when symptoms have lasted or are interfering with ordinary responsibilities. Be direct about mood, sleep, appetite, energy, and thoughts of self-harm. Treatment may include talking therapy, practical support, medicine, or a combination. Keep regular meals, a simple sleep routine, gentle movement, and contact with a trusted person where possible. Break tasks into small actions; asking someone to sit with you while you make an appointment can lower the barrier to getting help.

Get urgent help now if you may harm yourself, cannot stay safe, or have thoughts of suicide. Contact local emergency services or go to an emergency department, and tell a trusted person who can stay with you. Urgent assessment is also needed for severe confusion, hallucinations, extreme agitation, or several nights without sleep with unusually high energy and risky behaviour. Depression with sudden worsening should not be managed alone.

Could these symptoms be depression or another health problem? Which treatment options suit me? How will we monitor progress and side effects? What should I do if my mood worsens or I feel unsafe?