What is depression?
Depression affects around one in ten adults at any time. It can develop gradually or follow a life event, and it often coexists with anxiety, ADHD, chronic illness or trauma. Left untreated it tends to recur, so getting the right help early matters.
Our psychiatrists are experienced in first-episode depression, recurrent depression, postnatal depression and treatment-resistant depression where several medications have already been tried.
Signs and symptoms
Mood
- Persistent low mood, emptiness or tearfulness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in things you used to enjoy
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness or hopelessness
- Irritability or numbness
Physical
- Fatigue and low energy
- Sleeping much more or much less than usual
- Changes in appetite and weight
- Slowed movement or agitation
Thinking
- Poor concentration and memory
- Difficulty making decisions
- Negative thoughts about yourself and the future
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Behaviour
- Withdrawing from friends and family
- Struggling at work or with daily tasks
- Using alcohol or drugs to cope
How we assess depression
A 60–90 minute consultation with a consultant psychiatrist covering your current symptoms, history, physical health, medication and personal circumstances. We use validated scales such as the PHQ-9 and screen for bipolar disorder, ADHD, thyroid and other physical causes, and trauma.
You receive a written report within five working days with a clear diagnosis and treatment plan, shared with your GP if you wish.
How we treat depression
Treatment is tailored to the severity and pattern of your depression and may include:
- Antidepressant medication, selected and monitored by your psychiatrist, including augmentation strategies for treatment-resistant depression
- Cognitive behavioural therapy or interpersonal therapy with our psychologists
- Treatment of coexisting conditions such as ADHD, anxiety or insomnia
- Lifestyle, sleep and activity planning
- Regular reviews to check progress and adjust the plan