Depression Support: what it is and how we help

Depression support at a glance

Depression is more than feeling sad for a few days. It is a persistent low mood or loss of interest lasting at least two weeks that affects sleep, energy, appetite and how you see yourself. It affects around one in six adults in the UK at some point, and it is treatable. The right support often combines talking therapy, lifestyle change and, for some people, medication.

Signs of depression

• Low mood most of the day, most days
• Losing interest or pleasure in things you used to enjoy
• Sleeping too much or too little
• Tiredness and low energy
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness or hopelessness
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Physical aches and pains without a clear cause

How is depression treated?

NICE guidance on depression (NG222) recommends a choice of treatments, including guided self-help, group exercise, psychological therapies such as CBT and behavioural activation, and antidepressant medication. Your GP is the best first contact and can refer you to NHS Talking Therapies.

How we support depression in Chiswick

• Clinical psychology: assessment and therapy with Prof (Dr) Diwakar Sukul, Chartered Clinical Psychologist.
• Fitness and nutrition: structured exercise, which NICE recognises as a treatment option for depression.
• Yoga and tai chi: gentle group movement with evidence for improving mood.
• Acupuncture: some people find it helpful alongside talking therapy or medication; it is not a replacement for them.
• Blood tests: checking thyroid, vitamin D, B12 and iron, which can contribute to low mood and fatigue.

What does the evidence say?

Psychological therapies and exercise both have good evidence for mild to moderate depression. Combining therapy with medication is often most effective for more severe depression.

Feeling low or depression?

Everyone has low days, particularly after setbacks or losses. Depression is different in how long it lasts and how much it affects you: low mood or loss of interest most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks, along with changes in sleep, energy, appetite or concentration. If you are unsure, your GP can talk it through with you. For a fuller guide to the signs and where to get help, see signs of depression.

How is depression diagnosed?

There is no blood test for depression. A GP asks about your symptoms, how long they have lasted and how they affect daily life, and may use a short questionnaire such as the PHQ-9. They may also arrange blood tests to rule out physical causes, such as thyroid problems or anaemia, that can cause low mood and tiredness.

Depression and physical health

Depression often shows up in the body as tiredness, aches, poor sleep and changes in appetite, and long-term pain or illness increases the risk of depression. This two-way link is why caring for sleep, activity and physical symptoms can support recovery alongside talking therapy or medication.

What to expect at Omnia

Your first appointment is a calm, private conversation about how you are feeling, what has been happening and what support you already have. If psychological therapy is right for you, you can see our Chartered Clinical Psychologist, and physical therapies such as exercise coaching, yoga or acupuncture can be added alongside. If we are concerned about your safety, we will help you get urgent support and, with your consent, involve your GP.

What you can do today

• Tell someone you trust how you are feeling
• Book an appointment with your GP
• Plan one small, manageable activity each day
• Get outside for a short walk in daylight

Related: stress and anxiety and emotional pain. Omnia Lifestyle, Chiswick W4. Book online or call 020 4515 0000.