
Yusim adds that the dark night of the soul will often involve suffering, setbacks, and obstacles. It's as if we are doing everything we can to stay afloat, and it seems as if the universe, the world, and life is against us." The idea of a spiritual depression, however, is a part of many different spiritual and religious traditions, including Buddhism, where it's referred to as "falling into the pit of the void."Īccording to Anna Yusim, M.D., a psychiatrist and the author of Fulfilled: How the Science of Spirituality Can Help You Live a Happier, More Meaningful Life, "The dark night of the soul is essentially any time when our darkness comes to the forefront. If your GP prescribes you antidepressants, they will discuss the different types and which one would suit you best.The concept of the dark night of the soul was first coined in a poem by Saint John of the Cross, a 16th-century Spanish mystic and poet.

AntidepressantsĪntidepressants are commonly used to treat depression. To help you decide which one would most suit you, talk to your GP or read about the different types of talking therapies. There are lots of different types of talking therapies available. If your GP has prescribed antidepressants, it's important that you carry on taking them. Tools such as self-help books and online counselling can be very effective. Self-help techniques can include activities such as meditation, breathing exercises and learning ways to think about problems differently. Life changes, such as getting a regular good night's sleep, keeping to a healthy diet, reducing your alcohol take and getting regular exercise, can help you feel more in control and more able to cope. Whether you have depression or just find yourself feeling down for a while, it could be worth trying some self-help techniques. If you're diagnosed with depression, your GP will discuss all of the available treatment options with you, including self-help, talking therapies and antidepressants. If you're feeling distressed, in a state of despair or suicidal out with these hours you can contact NHS 24 on 111 or Samaritans on 116 123 (24 hours, 7 days a week). If you're still feeling down after a couple of weeks, talk to your GP or speak to a Breathing Space advisor on 0800 83 85 87 (Mon to Fri 6pm to 2am, 24 hours at the weekend). Whatever the cause, if negative feelings don't go away, are too much for you to cope with, or are stopping you from carrying on with your normal life, you may need to make some changes and get some extra support. When to get help for low mood or depression Read more about the symptoms of depression.ĭepression can also come on at specific points in your life, such as the winter months ( seasonal affective disorder, or SAD) and after the birth of a child ( postnatal depression). not being able to concentrate on everyday things like reading the paper or watching television.

Symptoms of depression can include the following:

DepressionĪ low mood that doesn't go away can be a sign of depression. Making some small changes in your life, such as resolving a difficult situation, talking about your problems or getting more sleep, can usually improve your mood. However, a low mood will tend to lift after a few days or weeks. What's the difference between low mood and depression? Low mood If you're experiencing low mood, depression or anxiety phone Breathing Space on 0800 83 85 87. Sometimes it's possible to feel down without there being an obvious reason. Difficult events and experiences can leave us in low spirits or cause depression.
