Depression is an illness that can overwhelm your mind and body. If you’re feeling sad or hopeless, use these coping strategies to lift your spirits :

Dont withdraw from life. Socialising can improve your mood, so get in touch with friends and family. When you feel down, you’ll have someone to talk to. If you haven’t exercised for a while, starting gently by walking for 20 minutes every day is a good way to begin again.

Alcohol can make you feel more depressed, so if you do drink, try to limit the amount of times and how much. For some people it can become a problem. You may drink more than usual as a way of coping with or hiding your emotions, or just to fill time.

If you’re finding that antidepressants are affecting your appetite, there are a few things you can do to stay on top of it. Try eating small healthy snacks throughout the day and try not to skip meals. You may want to speak with your doctor about taking a different medication or reducing or increasing the dose of the one you currently take. Noticing changes in your mood or symptoms after taking medication is nothing to be ashamed of, it’s actually important that you talk to your doctor so they can help you manage any side effects.

If you’re still feeling down or depressed after a couple of weeks, your GP may refer you to get help from the NHS. Treatments include psychological therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and antidepressants. You can refer yourself for psychological therapies like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) or counselling on the NHS.