Help What is depression?
People sometimes say they’re ‘depressed’ when they’re having a bad day, but depression is more than that – it’s when those low feelings are there for a long time and are there all the time.
Young people can suffer from depression just like adults do, so if sad feelings and emotions are taking over your life then it’s a good idea to ask for help. You can read more about the symptoms of depression here.
MindMate help and advice
Top tips, resources and advice from MindMate to help with low mood and depression.
Starting conversations
Talking about how you feel isn’t always easy. It can be hard to know what to say first or describe how you feel, but it can be a big help to share your feelings with someone who cares.
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Top tips for becoming more mindful
Get started with these easy step by step tips for mindfulness which can help with low mood.
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Feeling anxious too?
Feeling really worried and anxious can often come hand in had with feeling very low. MindMate has a range of information on anxiety and stress.
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How are you sleeping?
Did you know that sleeping well is just as important for our health as eating a good diet and being active? So let’s make sure you’re getting enough, and find out some easy ways to make the most of your snoozing…
Go to pageHow can I get help?
- If you’ve been feeling like this for a while, or it has been affecting your life in a serious way, you should visit your doctor. If you’re scared about going by yourself, you could ask a friend, parent or carer to go with you. Your doctor will be able to talk you through the types of treatment that could help you.
- You can also find help from organisations, services and online. You can find some of the most useful videos, websites and contact numbers below and on our ‘What’s in Leeds for me?’ page.
Things you might find useful
Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM)
Website for young men who are feeling down or in a crisis.
Visit CALM
Headspace app
A fun and easy to use intro into 10-minute meditation – offers a free 10-day trial. More features available with subscription.
Get headspace
I had a black dog, his name was depression
Short animation about what it’s like to live with depression
Watch now
NHS Mood Zone
Practical, useful information, interactive tools, and videos to support you on your way to feeling better.
Go to pageNaomi's story
A story about using services, expressing yourself and what it means to 'be ok'.
Play Naomi's storyBlog posts
All blogs are written by young people in Leeds sharing their personal views on topics they care about. Feel free to leave comments.
10 things that help me when I’m struggling
by Kate – 15th Jan 2018
Things that make tough days a bit easier.
View
Holidays can be hard
by Megan – 7th Aug 2019
How I cope on holiday when I can’t leave my brain at home!
ViewAre you a parent or carer?
If you’re looking for more information to support a young person you care for with their mental health, visit our parent and carers page.