Dealing with depression
There are different ways to deal with depression and the best ones for you are likely to depend on the type and severity of your illness. Effective treatments include ‘talking therapies’: getting support from a counsellor, psychotherapist or psychiatrist, who will use proven methods, such as CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) to help you recover. Joining a support group to talk through your feelings can also be beneficial. As can self-help options, such as online CBT for depression courses and mind health and wellbeing tools. Lifestyle changes have also been shown to help, particularly getting more exercise, but also eating a healthy diet and cutting down on alcohol. Your doctor may recommend medication (antidepressants), in addition to talking therapy, particularly if your depression is severe. The most important thing is to seek help, even if you feel you have mild depression. The sooner you get support, the quicker you can recover.