Depression is one of the most common mental health problems people experience. But it can take a long time for us to ask for help. Sometimes we are are not sure if what we are experiencing is actually depression. We don't want to bother anyone or we don't know who to talk to.

Common symptoms of depression include tiredness, poor concentration, feeling hopeless and having a lack of pleasure in things. For some depression slowly creeps up on us and before we know it we can't even get out of bed any more. For others depression happens quickly following a difficult experience or out of the blue. No two depressed people have exactly the same experience, your depression is as unique as you.

If this sounds familiar you can complete a mood self assessment from the BBC here: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-35548477

If you are concerned about feeling depressed there is help available. Your GP will be able to talk through the options. One of these options is Cognititive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). If you would like to find out more about accessing CBT please read the information pages of the CBT Reflections website.