Depression is a debilitating illness which has the potential to affect anybody. Although some people are more vulnerable than others, the condition can strike indiscriminately. Scroll down for information about the types of depression support available. On the other hand, if you are looking for a therapist to help with depression read our articles about Better Help UK and Best Online Therapy UK.
Depression Charities and Organisations
Depression Alliance
A registered charity that works to raise awareness and improve support services for coping with depression. The site contains information about the help available as well as information about their self-help support group network.
Sane
Another important charity organisation here, dedicated to improving awareness about depression. They undertake research into depressive illnesses and provide information to sufferers. Their helpline is available 1pm to 11pm everyday. (see above)
Depression Counselling
A variety of approaches are used for depression counselling including Gestalt and Client-Centred therapy. The intention of all practitioners, irrespective of their chosen modality, is to help their clients confront and manage the illness. In addition to counselling, it can also be helpful to consult a doctor who may be able to recommend other forms of treatment.
Depression Helplines
Samaritans – 08457 90 90 90
The well-known charity provides a 24-hour, seven days a week helpline. Telephones are manned by trained people who offer support for any kind of issue. All calls are confidential.
Sane Line – 0845 767 8000
Operated by the charity organisation, SANE, this helpline is open 1pm to 11pm everyday. All calls are answered by trained volunteers. They also give advice about seeking help for depressive illness.
Rethink – 0845 456 0455
Rethink, the leading national mental health membership charity, works to help everyone affected by severe mental illness, recover a better quality of life.
Depression Explained
Depression is an illness that can cause persistent unhappiness and distress. Registered charity, Sane suggest that 1 in 6 people will suffer from it at some stage in their lives.
Sufferers may experience a range of negative feelings such as hopelessness, loss of confidence or feelings of guilt.
It may also manifest itself in other ways. For example, a person may try to avoid others or lose motivation for work or school. In some cases they might experience suicidal tendencies.
The illness can be triggered by upsetting experiences such as a bereavement, relationship breakdown or unemployment. However, research suggests that factors such as family history can make certain people more susceptible than others.
To receive help, it is very important that the sufferer recognises that they have a problem. This can be quite challenging, especially for men who may see depression as a sign of weakness – this may explain why the majority of people who report the condition are women.
