At a global level, over 264 million people of all ages have depression, which is now one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. (WHO) According to the World Health Organisation, more women are affected by depression than men.
In 2014, 19.7% of people in the UK aged 16 and over showed symptoms of anxiety or depression. (Source) In GB, excluding Northern Ireland, almost one in five adults were recorded as experiencing moderate to severe depression, which is an increase to 19.2% in June 2020. This has nearly doubled from one in 10 adults (9.7%) in July 2019. (Source)
In 2018, one in nine adults were diagnosed with depression, where 17% of men and 32% of women aged 35-44 showed signs of depression. (Source)
Studies show between 8-15% of the population (more than 150,000 people in Northern Ireland) experience depression in any given year. (Source)
Mood disorders - including depression - are 25% more common compared to other parts of the UK (Health and Social Care Board).
Depression is a common illness affecting people around the world - more than 264 million people to be exact, as cited in findings issued by the World Health Organisation in 2020. Depression is a serious health condition affecting around one in 10 people throughout their lifetime and studies show that around 4% of children in the UK between the ages of 5 and 16 are depressed or anxious, and more women than men are affected. When depression is at its worst, it can lead to suicide.
There isn’t one single cause of depression, but it can have a variety of triggers. Stressful life events, such as the death of a loved one, divorce, money worries, health issues, losing a job or having a baby can all cause symptoms of depression. It’s possible for symptoms to develop despite explainable triggers and people who have a family history of depression are genetically more at risk. Lifestyle choices and circumstances can also increase the likelihood of depression, including the impact of serious illness, drug or alcohol abuse or routine exposure to stressful environments.
The symptoms of depression can be thoughts, feelings or behaviours which we all experience as a low mood. But if you’re depressed, this feeling might become more unbearable, longer-term or can be experienced alongside other symptoms. The more symptoms someone has, the more likely they are to be depressed.
Depression can change your behaviour and the things you were once able to do become more difficult. You might be less interested in socialising and withdraw from family or friends. You might feel less productive in your work or studies, and find it difficult to concentrate. You might take less enjoyment from activities you used to enjoy and your sleeping patterns may change, whether you’re sleeping more or less. You might rely on alcohol or substances to cope and your sex drive or appetite might be impacted.
People with depression tend to feel unhappiness, sadness, frustration, a lack of confidence, anxiety, indecision or irritability. Other symptoms include feeling tearful, hopeless or more overwhelmed than usual.
If you or someone you know may be experiencing depression, it’s important to reach out and get help. Work through our Guide Me section to learn more about your support options.
Talking therapies, which involve speaking to a trained professional, can help you explore your depression and discuss any feelings that may be concerning you. Another treatment is antidepressants which can be prescribed by your GP and taken alongside talking therapy or on their own. For information about antidepressants, visit NHS Choices. The type of treatment which suits you will depend on the severity of your depression and it’s recommended you speak with your GP to assess your symptoms.For mild cases of depression, treatment can often be through developing coping techniques, such as mindfulness, learning healthy thoughts patterns through CBT or making lifestyle changes, such as exercising, getting outdoors into nature, reducing alcohol intake and eating healthy.
Many people with depression seek support, whether it’s through a mental health support service, speaking to someone through a helplineor getting one-to-one support such as talking therapy, CBT, life coaching or creative therapies. Once you’ve decided on an option, it can help to prepare for getting the most out of your support.
Ways to help myself
I don’t think I can do this alone
Lifeline is a telephone helpline and counselling for anyone in distress. It’s available 24/7 and free to call from your mobile.0808 808 8000
Mind’s Infoline provides an information service where you can ask about mental health problems, where to get help near you and treatment options.
SANEline can support you or someone you know if you're experiencing a mental health problem. Call SANEline on 0300 304 7000 (4.30pm–10.30pm every day)