Most people, including children, young people and suits, feel low occasionally. This is a normal reaction to events that are upsetting. It is even more common for young people to be affected by a range of moods, sometimes called ‘adolescent blues.’ Sadness over a bereavement is called grieving and a healthy response to loss.

However, in a small proportion of individuals depression presents as an ill health condition also terms ‘clinical depression’. Clinical depression affects around 5 out of 100 young people and around 1 in 6 adults.

Diagnosis should be by a suitably qualified health professional. Some signs include persistent low mood, apathy, withdrawal, lack of motivation, not looking forward to the future, anger directed either towards oneself or to others, the use of alcohol or substances to alter mood state.

If you are concerned please contact your GP.