Depression is when you have overwhelming feelings of sadness, unhappiness or hopelessness that last for weeks or months.
These feelings can often take over and make it difficult to continue with daily activities such as work, studying, spending time with friends and family.
Depression can affect anyone, at any time in their lives, regardless of age and gender. Autistic people are more prone to feeling depressed and low in mood than those without autism.
Depression is a genuine illness with real symptoms.
It is nothing to be ashamed of and is not a sign of weakness.
The effects of depression can be different for everyone, and its severity can vary depending on your symptoms.
Depression can be split into three levels:
Mild depression
Symptoms have some impact on daily life, but you can still manage day to day life.
Moderate depression
Symptoms may have a significant effect on daily life.
Severe depression
Symptoms make it almost impossible to get through daily life and perform straightforward tasks such as getting out of bed, brushing your teeth and leaving the house.
For information on getting help in a mental health emergency or crisis, click here
For resources and services to support with emotional health and wellbeing, click here
