What is the first treatment for depression?

Depression can affect mood, sleep, energy, concentration, appetite and interest in daily life. A clinician asks about symptoms, duration, impact, past episodes, physical health, medicines, alcohol or drug use and safety. This helps distinguish depression from other conditions and understand its severity. Treatment is then matched to the person's symptoms, circumstances, preferences and previous response. Talking therapy can help change unhelpful patterns, while medicine may affect brain signalling involved in mood.

Arrange a GP Consultation if low mood or loss of interest is affecting daily function or relationships. A Mental Health Assessment can explore symptoms, safety and the type of support that may help. Keep regular meals, sleep routines, gentle activity and contact with supportive people where possible, but do not treat these steps as a substitute for care when symptoms are persistent or severe. If medicine is prescribed, take it as directed and discuss side effects before making changes.

Seek immediate help if you are thinking about suicide, have a plan to harm yourself, feel unable to stay safe, or hear or see things others do not. Contact emergency services or go to the nearest emergency department, and tell a trusted person who can stay with you. Urgent assessment is also needed for severe agitation, confusion or a sudden major change in behaviour.

Ask which treatment fits your symptoms, how soon to expect a review, what side effects to report, how long to continue a prescribed medicine, and what to do if your mood worsens. Ask about talking therapy, practical support and a safety plan for difficult moments.