Stress and depression

It is normal to feel distress, anxiety and depression in times of worry. Job insecurity, debt, redundancy and housing issues can all play a part in causing emotional distress. Worry is a very common human emotion and you may be feeling and thinking in ways that are unfamiliar. However this doesn't necessarily mean that you are suffering from stress or depression.

What is stress?

Stress is a physical response to events that make you feel threatened or upset your balance in some way. When working properly, stress helps us to stay focused, alert and energetic - but it can affect different people in different ways.

Symptoms include anger, depression, loss of appetite, nervous twitching and dizziness, as well as feeling tired and tearful. A full range of stress symptoms is available on the NHS website.

What is depression?

More than two million people in the UK suffer from depression each year, but most get better after treatment. Treatment usually involves counselling or psychotherapy, and sometimes anti-depressant medicines.

How to get help

It's best to go and speak to your GP about any problems that you or someone you know is having with depression. You can find your nearest GP by using the postcode search facility on the NHS Direct website. Your GP may be able to offer you treatment straight away, or you might be referred to someone who will give you specialist help.

Services for the LGBT community

The Metro Centre offers counselling for lesbians, gay men and bisexuals (LGBT). Short and long-term programmes are available. Visit the Metro Centre Online for further information.