What to do next if you feel depressed

Telling someone is the first step to getting better.
Image: Vadim Kozlowsky/Shutterstock.com

If you think you could be depressed, it's best to go and talk to your doctor about it. If you are not ready to go to a doctor, call one of the support services listed below. Talking to a supportive family member, friend, or another health professional can also help.

Some people don’t seek help because they feel like nothing will help, or that they should be strong enough to solve their own problems. This may be the depression talking — feeling worthless, guilty and pessimistic about the future are symptoms of depression.

If you feel life is not worth living, you need to get help immediately by talking to your doctor, calling a friend or family member, or calling one of the helplines below. Did you know that calls to Lifeline from mobile phones are free? You can still call from your mobile even if you have a pre-paid account that’s out of credit.

Helplines

For more information

• Treatment for depression
• Medicines for depression: antidepressants
• Psychological therapies
• Who can help if you are depressed?