Written by Luisa Kos
Table of contents
Understanding your depression symptoms and how it impacts daily life
Depression is more than feeling low or having a difficult day. It is a mental illness that can affect how you think, feel, and function in your daily life. You may experience a persistent depressed mood, loss of motivation, or find it difficult to enjoy things you once valued. For many people, depression affects energy levels, focus, and relationships, making everyday tasks feel harder to manage.
Whether you are experiencing mild depression or more severe depression, the impact can be significant. Over time, depressive symptoms can interfere with work, social life, and your sense of self. At The Therapist Finder, we understand that people with depression often feel isolated or misunderstood, but with the right support, you can begin to treat depression and regain a sense of control.
Common symptoms of depression
Depression can show up in different ways, and your experience may change over time. While some people notice emotional changes first, others experience physical symptoms or behavioural shifts that affect how they function. If you are living with depression, you may feel:
- Persistent low mood or feelings of sadness
- Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Changes in appetite, including weight gain or loss
- Fatigue or low energy levels
- Low self-esteem or feelings of worthlessness
- Experiencing depressive episodes that vary in intensity
- Withdrawal from social interactions or daily responsibilities
- Thoughts about death or suicidal thoughts
- Feeling disconnected from others or your environment
If you recognise these other symptoms, it may be a sign that you are experiencing depression. Reaching out to a mental health professional through The Therapist Finder can help you understand what you are going through and begin your recovery.
Are there any physical symptoms of depression?
Depression does not only affect your emotions. Many people also experience physical symptoms that can feel just as challenging. These may include physical aches, low energy, or ongoing fatigue that does not improve with rest.
In some cases, depression can link to chronic pain or worsen existing medical conditions. You might also notice changes in sleep, appetite, or overall physical wellbeing. These symptoms can make it harder to recognise depression, especially when they appear alongside other health concerns.
Understanding the connection between your mental and physical health is important. At The Therapist Finder, we help you connect with therapists who recognise how depression can affect your whole body and support you in managing both emotional and physical experiences.
Depression in children and teens
Depression can affect young people differently than adults. Children and teenagers may struggle to express how they feel, and symptoms may appear as irritability, withdrawal, or changes in behaviour. Experiences such as physical or sexual abuse can increase depression risk and contribute to long-term mental health problems.
Early support is important. When young people develop depression, it can affect education, relationships, and emotional development. Finding the right support through The Therapist Finder can help identify challenges early and provide guidance tailored to their needs.
Depression in adults
In adults, depression often presents as ongoing low mood, fatigue, and difficulty managing responsibilities. Many people continue with work and daily life while struggling internally, which can make it harder to seek help.
Depression and anxiety often occur together, and adults may also experience related conditions such as panic disorder or anxiety disorder. Without support, symptoms can persist or worsen, increasing the risk of chronic depression or recurring major depressive episodes.
What causes depression?
Depression is a complex condition, and there is rarely a single cause. A combination of psychological factors, biological influences, and life experiences can contribute to developing depression. Some triggers can include:
Childhood experiences
Early experiences can shape how you respond to stress and emotions. Negative experiences during childhood may increase the likelihood that you will develop depression later in life.
Life events
Major life changes or stressful situations can trigger depression. This may include loss, relationship breakdowns, giving birth or becoming pregnant, or ongoing stress.
Styles of thinking
Negative thinking patterns, including low self-esteem or self-criticism, can contribute to depressive symptoms and maintain a depressed mood.
Other mental health conditions
Conditions such as bipolar disorder, also known as manic depression, or other psychiatric disorders such as PTSD can increase vulnerability to depression.
Physical health issues
Certain medical conditions, including thyroid disorders, can contribute to symptoms of depression and impact your mental wellbeing.
Family history
If depression or other mental disorders run in your family, you may have a higher likelihood of experiencing similar challenges.
Specific medications
Some medications can affect mood and increase the risk of depression as a side effect.
Recreational drugs and alcohol
Substance abuse can worsen symptoms and make it harder to manage depression effectively.
Sleep, diet, and exercise
Lifestyle factors can play a role in mood regulation. Poor sleep, diet, or lack of exercise can contribute to experiencing depression.
Living With Major Depressive Disorder
Living with major depression or persistent depressive disorder can feel overwhelming, especially when symptoms continue over a long period. You may find it difficult to stay motivated, maintain routines, or feel hopeful about the future.
However, depression can be managed with the right support. At The Therapist Finder, we connect you with professionals who understand mood disorder conditions and can support you in managing chronic depression through structured and personalised care.
How Is Depression Diagnosed?
Depression is diagnosed through a comprehensive assessment by a qualified professional. This may include discussing your symptoms, experiences, and how long they have been affecting your life.
A medical diagnosis considers both emotional and physical aspects, including how your symptoms align with recognised mental health problem criteria. Your GP or therapist may also explore underlying medical conditions or contributing factors.
At The Therapist Finder, we help you connect with experienced professionals who can guide you through the diagnosis process and recommend appropriate mental health treatment.
Treatment options
There are a range of effective treatments available to support recovery. The right approach will depend on your needs, symptoms, and circumstances. At The Therapist Finder, you can explore psychological treatments and connect with therapists who specialise in depression.
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
CBT helps you identify negative thought patterns and develop healthier ways of thinking. It is one of the most widely used approaches to treat depression.
Interpersonal therapy (IPT)
IPT focuses on improving relationships and communication patterns. It helps address social and emotional factors that contribute to depression.
Behavioural activation
This approach encourages you to re-engage with activities that bring meaning or enjoyment. It supports gradual changes that improve mood and reduce withdrawal.
Individual problem solving
Problem-solving therapy helps you break down challenges into manageable steps. It builds confidence and supports practical solutions.
Psychodynamic psychotherapy
This approach explores past experiences and emotional patterns. It helps you understand how earlier events may influence your current feelings.
Medication may also be part of your initial treatment, and some people benefit from antidepressant medications alongside therapy. A combination of approaches can often provide the most effective results.
Get help from the right place with The Therapist Finder
If you are experiencing depression, you do not have to manage it alone. The Therapist Finder helps you connect with qualified professionals who understand how depression affects your life and can support your recovery.
Through The Therapist Finder, you can access talk therapy, explore treatment options, and find a therapist who fits your needs. Whether you are experiencing less severe depression or moderate or severe depression, support is available to help you move forward.
Therapy helped me understand that depression is not a sign of weakness. It’s an illness, and like any illness, it needs treatment, care, and management.
Find a specialist now
Finding the right therapist can make a meaningful difference in your recovery. At The Therapist Finder, you can explore experienced professionals who specialise in depression and related conditions.
Take the next step today with The Therapist Finder and connect with a therapist who can help you understand your experiences, develop coping strategies, and work towards lasting change.
Roxanne Black
In my practice, I help clients unpick the internalised beliefs and habits that prevent them from living with integrity. My professional background spans diverse settings, including university counselling services and low-cost therapy providers, giving me a broad perspective on the varied complexities people face. I also have significant experience supporting young adults as they navigate the unique pressures of that life stage. My practice is particularly grounded in: Interpersonal Relationships and the ‘Fixer’ Role: I support individuals who feel overwhelmed by the needs of others, helping them transition from a cycle of people-pleasing to a place of healthy self-assertion. Boundary Work and Self-Value: we focus on the practical and emotional aspects of setting boundaries, whether in your personal life or your professional career, to build a more resilient sense of self. Neurodivergence and Identity: I have extensive experience supporting clients navigating life with a neurodivergent brain, particularly those exploring their identity and patterns post-diagnosis. Culturally Sensitive Practice: Born and raised in London, I am deeply committed to therapy that respects the nuances of diverse cultural backgrounds, ensuring your lived experience is fully seen and heard. Focused Clarity Sessions: For those facing a specific dilemma or needing a professional sounding board, I offer intensive sessions to help you find your voice and a clear path forward without a long-term commitment.
Ania Dyczkowska
I am a UKCP Registered Psychotherapist with over a decade of experience providing psychotherapy for individuals and couples in Central London and online across the UK. I work with a broad range of emotional and psychological difficulties, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, stress, burnout, unresolved grief, low self-esteem, self-criticism, emotional overwhelm, somatic symptoms linked to emotional problems and lack of fulfilment. My approach is relational, psychodynamic, and integrative, offering a confidential and supportive space to explore emotional challenges, recurring patterns, and difficulties in relationships and everyday life. Together, we can work towards greater self-understanding, emotional resilience, healthier relationships, and meaningful, lasting change.
Hayley Anderson-Walsh
As a Therapist I am acutely aware of the importance of working with a counsellor who can support your therapeutic journey. Sometimes, we all face challenges in life that leave us feeling stuck and unable to see a way out. In therapy, I’ll provide you with a safe and supportive space to talk things through. Together, we’ll focus on the present, deepen your self-understanding, and discover new ways to move forward. I offer individual online sessions
Letishea McLean
Over 15 years of clinical experience including the NHS, university environments, prison services, and private practice. These experiences have meant working with diverse client groups clinical and real-world life needs.
Carina Tudor-Sfetea
I’m an experienced, yet very human BABCP-accredited CBT therapist specialising in working with high-achievers with low self-esteem, high-functioning anxiety, or OCD, including autistic and ADHD folks, as well as LGBTQIA+ folks. I use evidence-based approaches – Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), but really from an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and mindfulness perspective (I’m also a mindfulness teacher) – so if you’ve tried CBT before and haven’t really connected with it, I might be your person. Maybe your life looks great, but inside you feel inadequate and like you’ll be ‘found out’. Anxiety, intrusive thoughts, overwhelm; feeling stuck, not good enough; overpreparing, procrastinating, checking; it may all actually be a fear of failure. My approach? Challenge what’s unhelpful while honouring your experiences and unique brain – so you unhook from the “there’s something wrong with me” loop and live your truth. We’ll work with the anxiety, intrusive thoughts, overwhelm, procrastination, overthinking, but also with what’s underneath – expectations, fear of failure or vulnerability, of being found out. We’ll both explore deeply and use active interventions to get you to a place where you don’t just survive, but really live your life. This may look like less noise, overthinking, or limiting yourself; more peace, balance and understanding – and knowing, deep down, that you’re enough.
James O’Callaghan
I have a level 7 diploma in counselling and I’m currently near completion of my MA in counselling and psychotherapy. I work in private practice. My practice has a GSRD and trauma focus.
Julia Mair
I specialise in working with anxiety. During our sessions we will explore what lies beneath your anxiety to join the dots between your thoughts and feelings so that you can move forward. I trained for four years at The Minster Centre in London, one of the leading psychotherapy schools in the UK. As well as working in private practice, I have worked for two community-based counselling services in West London. I am committed to practising in a sensitive, thoughtful, and compassionate way. I respect the different backgrounds of my clients and I am aware of the social, cultural, and structural issues involved in the difficulties we face as individuals.
Mike Green
I’ve been counselling individuals and couples, from 18 to 88, with a diverse range of backgrounds, challenges and needs. I served my initial client hours working for Mind UK whilst training to become a qualified counsellor, and on completion of training I set up my own private practice, which I have been running now for over 8 years. I like to work with a range of issues from Anxiety, Depression, Bereavement, Stress, Self-Esteem, Trauma, this keeps the work interesting, challenging and keeps me on my toes. I continue to enjoy learning about human psychology, behaviour and mental health, which I find both intriguing and helpful in my work.
Vincent Goyon
Therapy for anxiety, relationships, shame, sexuality and identity in Shoreditch. ✦ Feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, emotionally stuck, or caught in repeating relationship patterns? I work with adults experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, ADHD, shame, substance use, sexuality and intimacy difficulties, or the lasting impact of developmental trauma. ✦ My approach is relational and integrative. Together, we can explore both present struggles and the deeper emotional patterns underneath them. We may look at how past experiences, attachment, and coping strategies continue to shape your relationships, emotions, and sense of self. ✦ I have particular experience supporting men’s issues, LGBTQIA+ clients, compulsive sexual behaviours, intimacy concerns, HIV-related experiences, and questions around belonging and identity. I offer therapy in English and French, in person, online, or by phone. ✦ Get in touch to arrange a free 20-minute conversation and see whether working together feels right.
