In a candid interview, Nicola Coughlan recalled the time she “had no money”, “couldn’t get out of bed” and felt like she “failed at everything”. It took her a long time to mentally recover, which was made possible by the continued support of family and friends.
Reflecting back on her experience, Nicola said: “I had to move back home to Ireland from London. I hadn’t had an audition in about a year.
“I had no money in my bank account, so I had to move back in with my parents.
“I was so depressed, and it was so hard. It was a very slow recuperation from that.”
“It’s so important to talk. The more open we are, we realise it’s not unusual and there’s a way out of it.”
Signs of depression
The NHS lists the following symptoms as signs of depression:
- Continuous low mood or sadness
- Feeling hopeless and helpless
- Having low self-esteem
- Feeling tearful
- Feeling guilt-ridden
- Feeling irritable and intolerant of others
- Having no motivation or interest in things
- Finding it difficult to make decisions
- Not getting any enjoyment out of life
- Feeling anxious or worried
- Having suicidal thoughts or thoughts of harming yourself
In order for these signs to be considered depression, they persist for weeks or months.
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In addition, they are “bad enough to interfere with your work, social life and family life”.
Treatment
Treatment for depression can involve self-help, talking therapies, medicines, exercise and support.
If you’d like more information on the support available to help someone who has depression, visit the NHS website.
Talking therapies are available on the NHS, but waiting times might be lengthy.
For confidential support call the Samaritans in the UK on 116 123 or visit a local Samaritans branch.
Nicola Coughlan will be on Channel 4’s Taskmaster Christmas Special, on Saturday January 1, at 9pm.
Source: Daily Express
