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• Mental health >> Depression >> Age 40-54 >> Interview 19 >> Became aware that she was having a 'breakdown' on the bus on the way home from work, so called her husband to come and pick her up.

Has managed to find joy in life through approaches including medication (currently venlafaxine 150mg & chlorpromazine 25mg), counselling, partner support, Christianity and voluntary work (which led to rewarding employment).

• Mental health >> Depression >> Age 29 and under >> Interview 15 >> Was pleasantly surprised by her welcome at a private psychiatric hospital.

With the help of a caring GP, her counsellor, private hospital treatment, Efexor (150mg/day) and self-help books, she was feeling better and is keen to continue her healing and help others. She has written a book: Saving Samantha: A Young Woman's Escape from Childhood Hell (isbn 1401910300) about her experiences.

• Mental health >> Depression >> Age 30-39 >> Interview 05 >> He cut off his friends when he was depressed because he did not want them to see him depressed, and he felt he couldn't cope with talking to anyone.

Has very good care from his GP. Medication was somewhat effective. He recently stopped taking Lithium and Effexor.

• Mental health >> Depression >> Age 40-54 >> Interview 23 >> Christmas time brings the absence of family into sharper focus for him; he feels he has somehow failed because he has no partner.

While avoiding medication, helpful approaches have included counselling, self-help books and alternative therapies (e.g. re-birthing). These approaches have helped reduce negative thinking and anxiety.

• Mental health >> Depression >> Age 65+ >> Interview 01 >> His wife helped a lot by looking after the children and household duties, but he regrets the family still 'missed a lot' through his depressive episod

Treatments have included ECT (Electroconvulsive Therapy), hospitalisation, talking therapies, lithium and medication. He was on a preventative, low dose of Zoloft (sertraline 100mg/day) due to his wife's death.

• Mental health >> Depression >> Age 40-54 >> Interview 39 >> Her husband missed out on the support she got. Having a break and getting counselling through Relate helped.

Helpful approaches have included hospitalisation, venlafaxine (75mg X 3/day), Fish Oils, individual Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and relationship counselling, support from local women, joining Depression Alliance, and a gradual return to work to build confidence.

• Mental health >> Depression >> Age 30-39 >> Interview 37 >> She had relationships with other women, and her mother reacted badly to one of her partners who she took to a family gathering, which was hurtful.

Is currently feeling well after a recent rough patch. Helpful approaches have included talking therapies, Prozac (20mg/day), living in a sunnier climate, and exercise.

• Mental health >> Depression >> Age 40-54 >> Interview 07 >> Feels under pressure to get better because he feels a burden on his partner and friends, yet feels his partner was very supportive.

Used a raft of strategies to recover including time off work, attending a support group, counselling, physical exercise, interaction with nature and pets, and spiritual healing.