The Mental Health Foundation has produced a free booklet entitled All About Depression for anyone who is feeling down or supporting a friend or relative with depression. The booklet describes the symptoms of depression, including problems with sleeping, change in appetite, lack of energy, difficulty in making decisions and feeling worthless. It explains the different types, including manic depression and seasonal affective disorder, and the ways of coping through self-help techniques such as setting achievable goals for yourself, having a good network of friends and talking through problems. It also looks at the impact of exercise, diet and complementary therapies, as well as the different types of antidepressant medication, counselling and talking treatments available.

All About Depression includes a step-by-step guide on how to find specialist support through health services, voluntary organisations and helplines. At the end of the booklet there are details of publications to read and organisations that may be able to provide further help. To obtain a free copy of the booklet send a SAE to The Mental Health Foundation, 20/21 Cornwall Terrace, London NW1 4QL; tel: 020 7535 7420; http://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/bkdepress.htm.