Depression is one of the most common mental health conditions in the UK. It goes far beyond simply feeling sad — it can affect thoughts, emotions, physical health, and daily functioning. The good news is that depression is treatable, and support is available.
In this post, we’ll cover:
- What depression really is.
- The different types of depression.
- How it’s diagnosed.
- Effective treatments recommended by NICE.
- Prevalence across the UK, with a spotlight on Wiltshire.
- Graphs and data to help understand the bigger picture.
What Is Depression?
Depression is a condition where low mood lasts for two weeks or longer, affecting work, relationships, and health. It’s not just about sadness — many people also experience:
- Loss of interest or pleasure.
- Sleep and appetite changes.
- Fatigue or low energy.
- Difficulty concentrating.
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt.
- Thoughts of death or suicide.
For diagnosis, clinicians look for persistent low mood or loss of interest, plus at least four other symptoms, causing distress or impairment.
Types of Depression
There are several forms of depression, including:
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): Severe episodes lasting two weeks or more.
- Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia): Long-term, lower-level depression (two years+).
- Bipolar Depression: Low phases within bipolar disorder, alternating with mania/hypomania.
- Postnatal Depression: Depression after childbirth.
- Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Linked to seasonal changes and low light levels.
- Psychotic Depression: Severe depression with psychotic features.
- Treatment-Resistant Depression: When at least two treatments haven’t worked.
Causes and Risk Factors
Depression doesn’t have one single cause — it develops from a mix of biological, psychological, and social factors:
- Biological: Brain chemistry, genetics, inflammation.
- Psychological: Negative thinking styles, trauma, rumination.
- Social: Stress, poverty, isolation, unemployment.
Protective factors like social support and coping skills can reduce risk.
How Common Is Depression?
National Picture (England)
- Around 6.6% of adults experienced a depressive episode in the past week (APMS 2023/24).
- 20.2% of adults live with a common mental health condition (anxiety and depression combined).
- Rates of depressive symptoms have risen from 7% in 1993 to 9.3% in 2023/24.
Wiltshire Spotlight
- Around 8% of adults in Wiltshire are estimated to live with depression — that’s roughly 30,000 people.
- The South West region is slightly above the national average for depression and anxiety.
Treatments That Work
NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) recommends a stepped-care approach:
- Mild depression: Watchful waiting, guided self-help, group CBT, exercise, lifestyle support.
- Moderate to severe depression:
- Psychological therapies such as CBT, interpersonal therapy (IPT), behavioural activation, and mindfulness-based CBT.
- Medication, usually SSRIs (like sertraline or fluoxetine) as first-line options.
- Combined therapy for better outcomes.
- Severe or resistant cases: Specialist services, augmentation strategies, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), or newer treatments like ketamine (in some centres).
Why It Matters
Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide and one of the biggest reasons for lost productivity in the UK. It increases risks of physical illness and suicide — but timely treatment can make a huge difference.
Graphs & Data
Here are two charts you can add to your blog post (upload as images in WordPress):
For those who want raw data:
Final Thoughts
Depression affects millions of people in the UK — and thousands here in Wiltshire. It is a serious but treatable condition. If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out:
- Speak to your GP.
- Self-refer to NHS Talking Therapies in Wiltshire.
- In crisis, call 111 (option 2) or Samaritans on 116 123.
💙 Depression is common, but recovery is possible. You are not alone.
Postal Address
