Depression is when you have overwhelming feelings of sadness, unhappiness or hopelessness that last for weeks or months.
These feelings can often take over and make it difficult to continue with daily activities such as work, studying, spending time with friends and family.
Depression can affect anyone, at any time in their lives, regardless of age and gender. Autistic people are more prone to feeling depressed and low in mood than those without autism.
Depression is a genuine illness with real symptoms.
It is nothing to be ashamed of and is not a sign of weakness.
The effects of depression can be different for everyone, and its severity can vary depending on your symptoms.
Depression can be split into three levels:
Mild depression
Symptoms have some impact on daily life, but you can still manage day to day life.
Moderate depression
Symptoms may have a significant effect on daily life.
Severe depression
Symptoms make it almost impossible to get through daily life and perform straightforward tasks such as getting out of bed, brushing your teeth and leaving the house.
If you are having thoughts about harming yourself or suicide, it is important to speak to someone, contact one of the services below and get some help:
Samaritans
Whatever you’re going through you can call us any time, from any phone for free on:
116 123
SHOUT
The UK’s first 24/7 crisis text service, provides free, confidential, 24/7 text message support in the UK for anyone who is struggling to cope. This service is free on all major mobile networks, for anyone in crisis, anytime.
Text SHOUT to 85258.
Central Access Point
If you are in need of urgent NHS mental health support, you should call the Mental Health Central Access Point which is open 24/7.
Call: 0808 800 3302
