The first step to getting treatment is to see your GP. They should rule out any physical problems which might cause symptoms of depression.

Common treatments for depression include:

Talking therapies

Talking therapy is available on the NHS, from private healthcare providers and sometimes from charities. You will meet a trained therapist for a fixed number of sessions. Sometimes this will be with a group of people with the same diagnosis as you.

There are many different types of talking therapy. According to the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE), cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective therapies for depression. It should normally be available in your area.

Other common therapies include:
•Psychodynamic therapy,
•Problem-solving therapy,
•Interpersonal therapy, and
•General counselling.

These therapies may not be widely available in your area but it is worth asking your GP about them if you are interested.

Computerised cognitive behavioural therapy (CCBT)

Computerised cognitive behavioural therapy (CCBT) is a relatively new way of treating mild to moderate depression. It is a way of learning CBT techniques online through a computer. You will complete regular sessions to learn new ways to deal with your depression.

In a lot of areas, the NHS uses CCBT programmes such as ‘Beating the Blues’, ‘COPE’ and ‘Overcoming Depression’. One of these, or something similar, may be available free of charge through your GP.

Antidepressants

Your doctor might offer you an antidepressant. You may need to try different types before you find one that works for you. Antidepressants can have unpleasant side effects and can affect other medicines you are taking. It is important to talk to your doctor before you stop taking them, because stopping suddenly can cause problems.

Exercise Therapy

Having good physical health and exercising can help with depression. Some GP surgeries will put you in touch with local exercise schemes. These might sometimes be called ‘exercise on prescription’.

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a procedure sometimes used to treat severe depression. In this treatment, an electrical current is briefly passed through your brain while you are under general anaesthetic. ECT is only offered if other kinds of treatments have not helped and your depression is very severe.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

TMS involves using magnetic fields to try to change the way the brain works. Scientists think that this could help people with depression and does not cause any major safety concerns.

Complementary/ Alternative Therapies

Complementary therapies are treatments which are not part of mainstream medical care. They can include aromatherapy, massage, mindfulness, meditation and yoga. These are aimed at improving your emotional well being.