Depression

We all feel low or down in ourselves from time to time. This is a very normal feeling and part of the ups and downs of life. Different Travellers describe this in different ways. Travellers might say that they are punishing themselves, some could say they are suffering and not feeling the best. We all have our own ways of speaking and different ways of coping. Sometimes when we are feeling down it is hard to remember a time when you did not feel like this, but you will feel good again. If your feelings of being down go on for a long time or you cannot fight off the feeling for a few weeks you may be suffering from depression. Depression is when you feel low or down in yourself most of the time for a few weeks or months.

Depression can stop you from doing the things you want to do. When you feel this way it is important to get help. Depression is a medical illness -the same as a broken arm or leg – and treatment will help. Sometimes adults can think that young Travellers do not experience depression. This is not true. Anyone of any age, including children, can feel depressed or down in themselves. Being a young Traveller can be tough and it is normal to feel sad or down in yourself every now and then. This can be caused by many things from hormonal changes in your body, to dealing with stressful situations like bullying, discrimination, poor living conditions or family issues. Feeling depressed is not a weakness. In fact, it takes a very strong person to say that they are feeling depressed and to ask for help. Feeling depressed can make you feel very lonely or tired. You might feel like you have no interest in anyone or anything around you at the moment. It might be hard to feel positive about your future.

You might also:

If you are feeling low in yourself remember that you can get help to support you through this difficult time. There is also things you can do to help yourself feel better.

Depression is often helped with therapy or medication.

Other things you can do are:

Remember to exercise, starting even with 10 minutes a day. Exercise can help our mood.
Eat well and include fruit and vegetables in what you eat every day.
Avoid drugs or alcohol. Alcohol makes feelings of depression and low mood worse.
You may find mental health supports useful – check out the list in the blue panel.