University of Bradford >> Counselling >> Leaflets >> Feeling Down
Feeling Down
Feeling down: what is it?
Feeling down is a common experience for many people. It can occur at any age from childhood to old age and affects people in all walks of life. It can range from feeling “low” or “blue” for a few days to severe depression which can last for weeks and months.
When someone is suffering from depression they may feel as though life is not worth living and that they can’t cope with everyday tasks. When depression reaches this point the person may need help. Find someone to talk to before the symptoms become overwhelming!
It is not a sign of weakness to admit that you need help, rather it takes courage to ask for it.
Reasons for feeling down
Usually there is more than one reason for being depressed and these differ with each person.
- An Event. Something may have happened to cause you to feel depressed, such as a disappointment, or perhaps a bereavement.
- Circumstances. If you are alone with no friends or if you have worries or are physically run down after an illness.
- Physical Illness. If you suffer a lot with pain or an illness goes on for a long time.
- Relationships. If you are having problems with relationships, either in your family or with a boyfriend or girlfriend.
Are you experiencing some of these feelings?
- Feelings of unhappiness that don’t go away
- Loss of interest in life
- Unable to enjoy anything
- Difficulty in making decisions
- Feeling utterly tired
- Feeling physically ill, headaches or unexplained pains and stomach upsets
- Feeling restless or agitated
- Loss or change of appetite
- Difficulty in sleeping
- Waking early and can’t get back to sleep
- Losing interest in sex
- Loss of self-confidence
- Avoiding others
- Thinking of suicide
How can I get help?
There are two types of help available and these depend on how severe your symptoms are:
- Talking To A Counsellor
Simply talking to a counsellor about your feelings may be helpful, however low you are. If your symptoms are more severe then you may not feel able to explore and confront the reasons behind it as this takes energy and motivation which you may not have at this time. You may find that you feel uncomfortable expressing how you really feel to your family or friends and it may be easier to talk to a counsellor.
- Medication
If your symptoms are severe or go on for a long time you may need to see your doctor who can prescribe anti-depressants. These are not tranquillisers, although they may help you feel less anxious or agitated. They are not addictive and they can help you reach a point where you are able to talk about your problems.
How can you help yourself?
- Talk! Talking about how you are feeling or about the things that are worrying you is a natural part of the healing process.
- Keep Active. Find an activity you can do and take some exercise. Break out of your normal routine.
- Eat Well. Eat a well balanced diet with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. This will keep you physically healthy.
- Less Alcohol. Try not to over indulge in alcohol, this will not help in the long term. Alcohol actually can make your feelings worse.
The Counselling Service
An appointment can be made to see
a Counsellor by contacting the Counselling Service in the Student Centre
(Kirkstone Halls)
Drop-In Services are available Mon – Fri term time. This provides an opportunity
to see a Counsellor for a brief session without the need to make an appointment.
Useful Links
Useful Addresses
Depression Alliance
35 Westminster Bridge Road
London.
SE1 7QB.
Telephone: 0207 633 0557
MIND in Bradford
Tradeforce Building
Cornwall Place
Bradford
BD8 7JT
Telephone: 01274 730815
The Samaritans
6 Mornington Villas
Bradford
BD8 7HB
National Helpline: 0845 7 90 90 90 (local call rate)
Bradford: 01274 547547
Saneline
Information line for mental health, 12.00pm – 02.00am: 0845 767 8000
