Depression

 

Depression is felt as an emotional state like sadness, 'feeling blue' or wanting to hide away. This is experienced by everybody at different times in our lives.

 

When it gets in the way of life and is lasting for longer than two or so weeks it will be important to try and do something about it like seeing a GP or therapist.

 

A depressed person might experience other than emotional symtoms like loss of hunger or sleep disturbances and headaches. Feeling at a loss in life, anxiety, deminished sex drive, hopelessness and suicidal ideation can be present and need attention.

 

About 10-20 % of the NZ population suffer from depression at some point during their lifetime.