Depression is a common condition, which will affect one in three people at some point in their life. There are different types of depression and many potential causes. Early symptoms could be changes in eating habits or sleeping patterns and people suffering from depression often experience an overwhelming sense of despair or a loss of self-esteem.

Depression is often described as Mild, Moderate and Severe.  In Mild depression even though the person’s life will most probably continue with most of their daily activities being ongoing, life feels more difficult and demanding.  In Moderate depression a person will usually find it difficult in maintaining relationships, work commitments, looking after themselves and socializing. In Severe depression a person will usually have many of the symptoms of depression most of the time.  These symptoms could be depressed mood, insomnia, feelings of worthlessness, sadness, anxiety, being pessimistic, loss of interest or pleasure in daily activities including sex, loss of energy, increase or decrease in appetite, diminished concentration and ability to think and be decisive, feelings of irritability, suicidal thoughts or feelings.

There are often physical symptoms such as headaches or stomach pain and extreme tiredness. If not treated the condition can develop such that a person may have persistent thoughts of death or suicide. 
Counselling may help to understand the causes of depression and can address feelings of low self-esteem or persistent negative thinking.