Low mood and depression
Explained for you
Uses your language and style. The medical facts stay the same as NHS guidance.
NHS source (English)
Everyone feels low sometimes. If low mood lasts more than 2 weeks, or you lose interest in things you used to enjoy, it could be depression. Depression is an illness, not a weakness, and it can be treated. Talking to someone you trust, staying connected with others, keeping active and having a routine can help. You can refer yourself to NHS Talking Therapies without seeing a GP. Your GP can also talk through options including therapy and medicine. If you ever feel you might harm yourself, get help straight away: call 111 and choose the mental health option, call Samaritans on 116 123, or call 999 in an emergency.
Key words to recognise
You may hear these English words at appointments.
- Depression
- Feeling low or losing interest in things for most days, for 2 weeks or more.
- NHS Talking Therapies
- Free NHS therapy for depression and anxiety. You can refer yourself.
- CBT
- Cognitive behavioural therapy, a talking therapy that helps change unhelpful thinking patterns.
Things you can do
- Tell one person you trust how you have been feeling
- Refer yourself to NHS Talking Therapies (ask for an interpreter or a therapist who speaks your language)
- Get outside for a short walk each day
- Keep a regular time for sleeping and waking
Questions to ask your GP
- Could this be depression?
- Can I have therapy in my language or with an interpreter?
- What support is there while I wait?
This service provides health information and navigation. It does not diagnose conditions or replace advice from a healthcare professional.