THE number of people recognised as living with depression is growing.

Last year there were around 56,800 people in Oxfordshire diagnosed with depression (almost one in 10 GP-registered patients).

The figure is a 14 per cent compared to 2015/16.

Many experts, however, see the rise as a positive step with more people recognising signs and symptoms, while the stigma surrounding depression seems to be lessening leading to more people seeking help.

In Oxfordshire there are a number of services designed to offer help and support to those living dealing with depression and other mental health issues, however, identifying the condition is always the first step.

When you’re depressed you may, feel tired or lack energy, struggle to sleep or sleeping too much, lose interest in things you normally enjoy, put on or lose weight, get easily bad-tempered, not want to hang out with friends or have feelings of worthlessness.

Prolonged stressful situations in life can sometimes lead to depression or it can result from a build-up of lots of small problems leaving you feeling stuck and isolated.

Anyone who thinks they may be suffering from depression can talk to their GP, or contact Oxford Health's Talking Space service on 01865 901222 or email talkingspaceplus@nhs.net

Alternatively you can contact the Samaritans on 08457 90 90 90 or at www.samaritans.org