CBT is a structured psychological therapy that identifies and challenges negative thought patterns contributing to depression, replacing them with more balanced ways of thinking and behaving.

Regular aerobic exercise — such as brisk walking, running, swimming, or cycling — has robust evidence as a treatment for depression, both as standalone therapy and alongside other treatments.

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the most widely prescribed antidepressants. They are recommended for moderate to severe depression and are often used alongside psychological therapy.

St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) is one of the most studied herbal treatments for depression, with a long tradition of use in European herbal medicine.

Behavioural activation is a structured approach that counters depression by scheduling rewarding and meaningful activities, breaking the cycle of withdrawal and inactivity that maintains low mood.

High-dose EPA-dominant omega-3 supplementation has evidence as an adjunct treatment for depression, particularly for those with elevated inflammation markers.

MBCT combines mindfulness meditation with cognitive therapy techniques to help people with recurrent depression recognise early warning signs and break the rumination cycle before a full episode develops.

A Mediterranean-style diet rich in vegetables, legumes, whole grains, fish, and olive oil has been associated with lower rates of depression and better mental health outcomes.

Maintaining meaningful social relationships and seeking social support are protective factors against depression and aid recovery. Social isolation is both a symptom and a driver of depression.

Depression and sleep disruption are tightly linked — each worsens the other. Addressing sleep through consistent routines, sleep restriction therapy, and stimulus control can improve both sleep and mood.