Depression is a feeling of persistent sadness, involving feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. It involves not only mood but also feelings of being physically ill and of not being able to think clearly.

It is one of the most common conditions in the UK, affecting at least one in five people during their lifetime. It is also one of the most misunderstood. We believe that the lack of accurate information surrounding depression continues to prevent those affected from seeking and finding help when it is required.

Depression and Anxiety Disability Questionnaire
Depression Alliance and RADAR are carrying out a survey to find out more about people's experiences of  Depression and Anxiety.  They want to hear your views on the rights and benefits that are (or could be) available. You can take part in this survey which runs until May 4th (2010)

No-one should fear depression; the vast majority of people affected will make a full recovery after appropriate treatment. Successful treatment can involve a variety of different approaches, including self-help, psychotherapy, or medication. Depression Alliance is committed to offering people with depression information about the options available so that they can work with their doctor to make an informed decision about their own treatment.

If you are affected by depression, you are not 'just' sad or upset. You have an illness which means that intense feeling of persistent sadness, helplessness and hopelessness are accompanied by physical effects such as sleeplessness, a loss of energy, or physical aches and pains.

Sometimes people may not realise how depressed they are, especially if they have been feeling the same for a long time, if they have been trying to cope with their depression by keeping themselves busy, or if their depressive symptoms are more physical than emotional.

Here is a list of the most common symptoms of depression. As a general rule, if you have experienced four or more of these symptoms, for most of the day nearly every day, for over two weeks, then you should seek help.

• Tiredness and loss of energy
  
• Persistent sadness
  
• Loss of self-confidence and self-esteem
  
• Difficulty concentrating
  
• Not being able to enjoy things that are usually pleasurable or interesting
  
• Undue feelings of guilt or worthlessness
  
• Feelings of helplessness and hopelessness
  
• Sleeping problems - difficulties in getting off to sleep or waking up much earlier than usual
  
• Avoiding other people, sometimes even your close friends
  
• Finding it hard to function at work/college/school
  
• Loss of appetite
  
• Loss of sex drive and/ or sexual problems
  
• Physical aches and pains
  
• Thinking about suicide and death Self-harm 

If you feel that you are suffering from depression and have thoughts of suicide please see your doctor. Most people can be treated by medication.

If you are suicidal or considering self harm and are unable to contact your Doctor we recommend contacting the Samaritans:
Phone 08457 90 90 90 Website - http://www.samaritans.org/