Understanding
Depression
Depression is a common but serious mental health condition that affects how you feel, think, and handle daily activities. More than just feeling sad or going through a rough patch, depression involves persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest that significantly impact your quality of life.
Understanding
Depression
Depression is a common but serious mental health condition that affects how you feel, think, and handle daily activities. More than just feeling sad or going through a rough patch, depression involves persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest that significantly impact your quality of life.
Understanding
Depression
Depression is a common but serious mental health condition that affects how you feel, think, and handle daily activities. More than just feeling sad or going through a rough patch, depression involves persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest that significantly impact your quality of life.
What does Depression feel like?
Living with depression can feel like being trapped under a heavy, grey blanket that makes everything seem difficult and meaningless. Simple tasks like getting dressed, eating, or maintaining relationships can feel overwhelming and exhausting. You might experience a persistent sense of emptiness, hopelessness, or numbness, as if you're disconnected from yourself and the world around you.
Physical symptoms such as fatigue, sleep disturbances, and changes in appetite are common, whilst negative thoughts can dominate your thinking patterns. Many people describe feeling like they're going through the motions of life without experiencing joy, motivation, or connection to things they once found meaningful.
Common Symptoms
Persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
Significant changes in appetite and sleep patterns
Fatigue, low energy, or feeling physically slowed down
Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
Social withdrawal and isolation from friends and family
Difficulty accessing culturally appropriate mental health support
Thoughts of death, suicide, or self-harm
What does Depression feel like?
Living with depression can feel like being trapped under a heavy, grey blanket that makes everything seem difficult and meaningless. Simple tasks like getting dressed, eating, or maintaining relationships can feel overwhelming and exhausting. You might experience a persistent sense of emptiness, hopelessness, or numbness, as if you're disconnected from yourself and the world around you.
Physical symptoms such as fatigue, sleep disturbances, and changes in appetite are common, whilst negative thoughts can dominate your thinking patterns. Many people describe feeling like they're going through the motions of life without experiencing joy, motivation, or connection to things they once found meaningful.
Common Symptoms
Persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
Significant changes in appetite and sleep patterns
Fatigue, low energy, or feeling physically slowed down
Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
Social withdrawal and isolation from friends and family
Difficulty accessing culturally appropriate mental health support
Thoughts of death, suicide, or self-harm
What does Depression feel like?
Living with depression can feel like being trapped under a heavy, grey blanket that makes everything seem difficult and meaningless. Simple tasks like getting dressed, eating, or maintaining relationships can feel overwhelming and exhausting. You might experience a persistent sense of emptiness, hopelessness, or numbness, as if you're disconnected from yourself and the world around you.
Physical symptoms such as fatigue, sleep disturbances, and changes in appetite are common, whilst negative thoughts can dominate your thinking patterns. Many people describe feeling like they're going through the motions of life without experiencing joy, motivation, or connection to things they once found meaningful.
Common Symptoms
Persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
Significant changes in appetite and sleep patterns
Fatigue, low energy, or feeling physically slowed down
Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
Social withdrawal and isolation from friends and family
Difficulty accessing culturally appropriate mental health support
Thoughts of death, suicide, or self-harm
History of Depression
Understanding depression has evolved from ancient concepts of melancholia to modern recognition as a treatable medical condition with complex biological and psychological components.
Ancient Greece
Hippocrates described "melancholia" as an imbalance of bodily humours, providing the first medical understanding of depression as a physical condition rather than spiritual weakness or moral failing.
1950s
The development of the first antidepressant medications (tricyclics and MAOIs) revolutionised treatment and established depression as a biological condition, though early medications had significant side effects.
1980s
The introduction of SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) provided safer, more tolerable medications, whilst cognitive behavioural therapy emerged as an equally effective psychological treatment for depression.
Present
Modern understanding recognises depression as involving complex interactions between genetics, brain chemistry, psychological factors, and life circumstances, with personalised treatment approaches combining medication, therapy, lifestyle interventions, and social support.
History of Depression
Understanding depression has evolved from ancient concepts of melancholia to modern recognition as a treatable medical condition with complex biological and psychological components.
Ancient Greece
Hippocrates described "melancholia" as an imbalance of bodily humours, providing the first medical understanding of depression as a physical condition rather than spiritual weakness or moral failing.
1950s
The development of the first antidepressant medications (tricyclics and MAOIs) revolutionised treatment and established depression as a biological condition, though early medications had significant side effects.
1980s
The introduction of SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) provided safer, more tolerable medications, whilst cognitive behavioural therapy emerged as an equally effective psychological treatment for depression.
Present
Modern understanding recognises depression as involving complex interactions between genetics, brain chemistry, psychological factors, and life circumstances, with personalised treatment approaches combining medication, therapy, lifestyle interventions, and social support.
History of Depression
Understanding depression has evolved from ancient concepts of melancholia to modern recognition as a treatable medical condition with complex biological and psychological components.
Ancient Greece
Hippocrates described "melancholia" as an imbalance of bodily humours, providing the first medical understanding of depression as a physical condition rather than spiritual weakness or moral failing.
1950s
The development of the first antidepressant medications (tricyclics and MAOIs) revolutionised treatment and established depression as a biological condition, though early medications had significant side effects.
1980s
The introduction of SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) provided safer, more tolerable medications, whilst cognitive behavioural therapy emerged as an equally effective psychological treatment for depression.
Present
Modern understanding recognises depression as involving complex interactions between genetics, brain chemistry, psychological factors, and life circumstances, with personalised treatment approaches combining medication, therapy, lifestyle interventions, and social support.
Take our free self-test
Take our free self-test
Take a short self-test to see if counselling might make a difference.
Take a short self-test to see if counselling might make a difference.
Instructions
Answer based on the last 2 weeks. Choose the option that fits best. You’ll see your results at the end.
This short self-test screens for depression over the last 2 weeks. It isn’t a diagnosis, but it can help you decide next steps.
How therapy can help
Evidence-based therapies, particularly cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy, and behavioural activation, have proven highly effective for treating depression. Therapy helps identify and challenge negative thought patterns, develop coping strategies, and gradually re-engage with meaningful activities and relationships.
Therapeutic approaches address underlying issues such as trauma, grief, relationship problems, or life transitions that may contribute to depression. Group therapy can reduce isolation, whilst mindfulness-based interventions help develop skills for managing difficult emotions and preventing relapse.
Benefits of Therapy
Identify and challenge negative thought patterns and beliefs
Develop healthy coping strategies for managing difficult emotions
Gradually re-engage with meaningful activities and relationships
Address underlying trauma, grief, or life stressors
Build self-esteem and develop a more compassionate self-relationship
Learn relapse prevention skills and early warning sign recognition
Improve communication and relationship skills
Create structure, routine, and goals that support recovery
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about depression and effective treatment approaches
How do I know if I'm experiencing depression rather than just feeling sad or going through a difficult time?
Depression involves persistent symptoms lasting at least two weeks that significantly impair your daily functioning, relationships, or work. Unlike normal sadness, depression often feels overwhelming, hopeless, and disconnected from specific life events, affecting sleep, appetite, energy, and concentration.
Can depression be treated without medication?
Yes, many people recover from depression through therapy alone, particularly cognitive behavioural therapy, interpersonal therapy, or other evidence-based approaches. However, for moderate to severe depression, the combination of therapy and medication is often most effective. Treatment decisions should be made collaboratively with healthcare professionals.
Why do I feel guilty about being depressed when I seemingly have a good life?
Depression can affect anyone regardless of life circumstances. It's a medical condition, not a character flaw or sign of weakness. Having external advantages doesn't prevent depression, and feeling guilty about being depressed is actually a common symptom of the condition itself.
How long does depression treatment typically take, and will I ever feel normal again?
Most people begin feeling better within 6-8 weeks of starting treatment, with significant improvement often seen within 3-6 months. Recovery is absolutely possible - many people not only return to their previous functioning but develop greater resilience and self-understanding through the recovery process.
How therapy can help
Evidence-based therapies, particularly cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy, and behavioural activation, have proven highly effective for treating depression. Therapy helps identify and challenge negative thought patterns, develop coping strategies, and gradually re-engage with meaningful activities and relationships.
Therapeutic approaches address underlying issues such as trauma, grief, relationship problems, or life transitions that may contribute to depression. Group therapy can reduce isolation, whilst mindfulness-based interventions help develop skills for managing difficult emotions and preventing relapse.
Benefits of Therapy
Identify and challenge negative thought patterns and beliefs
Develop healthy coping strategies for managing difficult emotions
Gradually re-engage with meaningful activities and relationships
Address underlying trauma, grief, or life stressors
Build self-esteem and develop a more compassionate self-relationship
Learn relapse prevention skills and early warning sign recognition
Improve communication and relationship skills
Create structure, routine, and goals that support recovery
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about depression and effective treatment approaches
How do I know if I'm experiencing depression rather than just feeling sad or going through a difficult time?
Depression involves persistent symptoms lasting at least two weeks that significantly impair your daily functioning, relationships, or work. Unlike normal sadness, depression often feels overwhelming, hopeless, and disconnected from specific life events, affecting sleep, appetite, energy, and concentration.
Can depression be treated without medication?
Yes, many people recover from depression through therapy alone, particularly cognitive behavioural therapy, interpersonal therapy, or other evidence-based approaches. However, for moderate to severe depression, the combination of therapy and medication is often most effective. Treatment decisions should be made collaboratively with healthcare professionals.
Why do I feel guilty about being depressed when I seemingly have a good life?
Depression can affect anyone regardless of life circumstances. It's a medical condition, not a character flaw or sign of weakness. Having external advantages doesn't prevent depression, and feeling guilty about being depressed is actually a common symptom of the condition itself.
How long does depression treatment typically take, and will I ever feel normal again?
Most people begin feeling better within 6-8 weeks of starting treatment, with significant improvement often seen within 3-6 months. Recovery is absolutely possible - many people not only return to their previous functioning but develop greater resilience and self-understanding through the recovery process.
How therapy can help
Evidence-based therapies, particularly cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy, and behavioural activation, have proven highly effective for treating depression. Therapy helps identify and challenge negative thought patterns, develop coping strategies, and gradually re-engage with meaningful activities and relationships.
Therapeutic approaches address underlying issues such as trauma, grief, relationship problems, or life transitions that may contribute to depression. Group therapy can reduce isolation, whilst mindfulness-based interventions help develop skills for managing difficult emotions and preventing relapse.
Benefits of Therapy
Identify and challenge negative thought patterns and beliefs
Develop healthy coping strategies for managing difficult emotions
Gradually re-engage with meaningful activities and relationships
Address underlying trauma, grief, or life stressors
Build self-esteem and develop a more compassionate self-relationship
Learn relapse prevention skills and early warning sign recognition
Improve communication and relationship skills
Create structure, routine, and goals that support recovery
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about depression and effective treatment approaches
How do I know if I'm experiencing depression rather than just feeling sad or going through a difficult time?
Depression involves persistent symptoms lasting at least two weeks that significantly impair your daily functioning, relationships, or work. Unlike normal sadness, depression often feels overwhelming, hopeless, and disconnected from specific life events, affecting sleep, appetite, energy, and concentration.
Can depression be treated without medication?
Yes, many people recover from depression through therapy alone, particularly cognitive behavioural therapy, interpersonal therapy, or other evidence-based approaches. However, for moderate to severe depression, the combination of therapy and medication is often most effective. Treatment decisions should be made collaboratively with healthcare professionals.
Why do I feel guilty about being depressed when I seemingly have a good life?
Depression can affect anyone regardless of life circumstances. It's a medical condition, not a character flaw or sign of weakness. Having external advantages doesn't prevent depression, and feeling guilty about being depressed is actually a common symptom of the condition itself.
How long does depression treatment typically take, and will I ever feel normal again?
Most people begin feeling better within 6-8 weeks of starting treatment, with significant improvement often seen within 3-6 months. Recovery is absolutely possible - many people not only return to their previous functioning but develop greater resilience and self-understanding through the recovery process.
Meet our Therapists
Meet our Therapists
Waqas Maqsood is an integrative counsellor and registered member of the BACP with over 600 clinical hours. Holding an MA in Integrative Counselling and a BSc in Neuroscience, he offers a holistic, flexible approach that supports clients with anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and life transitions.
More
Adults (18+)
Victoria is a compassionate and down-to-earth therapist with an MSc in Counselling and Psychotherapy and more than 1,900 clinical hours of experience. A registered member of the BACP, she supports both individuals and couples, offering a warm, collaborative space to explore relationships, self-worth, anxiety, and personal growth in a supportive environment.
More
Adults (18+)
Couples
Matt is an integrative counsellor holding a Diploma in Integrative Counselling with experience delivering more than 500 clinical sessions. He combines counselling, mindfulness, and meditation techniques to support clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and life transitions, helping people build resilience, clarity, and a stronger sense of emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)
At Manchester Counselling, we are pleased to introduce Grant Fairlie (MBACP), a counsellor with over 1,900 clinical hours and more than three years of practice. Grant brings a background in drama education and specialist experience supporting neurodiverse adults and adolescents.
More
Adults (18+)
Introducing Andrea Szentgyorgyi, a UKCP-registered integrative psychotherapist with over 1,000 clinical hours. Andrea combines person-centred, solution-focused therapy with advanced techniques including hypnotherapy and EMDR, creating a tailored and flexible approach for each client. With 6 years of experience, she provides a safe and supportive space to explore challenges and promote lasting emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)
At Manchester Counselling, we’re proud to introduce Isabella May Leonard (MSc), an experienced person-centred psychotherapist offering therapy for adults. With over 2,500 clinical hours, Isabella brings warmth, compassion, and professional depth to her practice, with experience across private practice, NHS Talking Therapies, and third-sector services. She provides both short- and long-term therapy, creating a safe and reflective space where clients can explore challenges at their own pace.
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Adults (18+)
Jayne Tamsett is a BACP accredited counsellor with a BA (Hons) in Counselling & Psychotherapy and over 4,700 clinical hours. She works with adults experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, and relationship challenges. Her practice offers an inclusive and compassionate space where clients feel heard, understood, and supported in their personal growth
More
Adults (18+)
Waqas Maqsood is an integrative counsellor and registered member of the BACP with over 600 clinical hours. Holding an MA in Integrative Counselling and a BSc in Neuroscience, he offers a holistic, flexible approach that supports clients with anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and life transitions.
More
Adults (18+)
Victoria is a compassionate and down-to-earth therapist with an MSc in Counselling and Psychotherapy and more than 1,900 clinical hours of experience. A registered member of the BACP, she supports both individuals and couples, offering a warm, collaborative space to explore relationships, self-worth, anxiety, and personal growth in a supportive environment.
More
Adults (18+)
Couples
Matt is an integrative counsellor holding a Diploma in Integrative Counselling with experience delivering more than 500 clinical sessions. He combines counselling, mindfulness, and meditation techniques to support clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and life transitions, helping people build resilience, clarity, and a stronger sense of emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)
Waqas Maqsood is an integrative counsellor and registered member of the BACP with over 600 clinical hours. Holding an MA in Integrative Counselling and a BSc in Neuroscience, he offers a holistic, flexible approach that supports clients with anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, and life transitions.
More
Adults (18+)
Victoria is a compassionate and down-to-earth therapist with an MSc in Counselling and Psychotherapy and more than 1,900 clinical hours of experience. A registered member of the BACP, she supports both individuals and couples, offering a warm, collaborative space to explore relationships, self-worth, anxiety, and personal growth in a supportive environment.
More
Adults (18+)
Couples
Matt is an integrative counsellor holding a Diploma in Integrative Counselling with experience delivering more than 500 clinical sessions. He combines counselling, mindfulness, and meditation techniques to support clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem issues, and life transitions, helping people build resilience, clarity, and a stronger sense of emotional wellbeing.
More
Adults (18+)
At Manchester Counselling, we are pleased to introduce Grant Fairlie (MBACP), a counsellor with over 1,900 clinical hours and more than three years of practice. Grant brings a background in drama education and specialist experience supporting neurodiverse adults and adolescents.
More
Adults (18+)