Being with others

If you're suffering from depression, you probably have neither the inclination nor the energy to spend time with other people.

If you have to go somewhere, you have to 'psyche' yourself up for it. You keep to yourself and you're not much fun to be with. Afterwards you feel drained and miserable. You may also be full of remorse over your behaviour.

Even a mild depression will leave you in a low mood, tired and short of energy.

• You may not be very good company
• You know you need to attend to your job, look after your family and friends, and take care of yourself. But you may not be bothered
• You know you should show more interest in other people, be more entertaining, have more bright ideas, get things moving, show more initiative. But you may not be bothered

When you're depressed, you want to be left in peace. Try to remember that this may only make your depression worse!