Analysis of Depression in Young Adults (18-25) in the UK: Report

This report investigates the multifaceted issue of depression among young adults aged 18-25 in the UK. It delves into the root causes of depression, including factors like abuse, genetics, and existing mental health issues. The report explores the various impacts of depression on the mental and physical well-being of this demographic, and outlines the different stages of depression, from mild to severe. Furthermore, it examines a range of management strategies, encompassing exercise, yoga, medication, and therapy. The study also highlights the crucial role of support services, such as family, friends, and teachers, in aiding young adults struggling with depression. The report finds that abuse is a significant trigger for depression within this age group, and it identifies parents and GPs as common sources of social support. The report is structured to provide a clear understanding of the topic, from background information and literature review to research methodology, discussion, and conclusion, offering a comprehensive analysis of depression in this vulnerable population.

Depression in Young People,
ages (18-25) in the UK

ABSTRACT
In this report it has been described about causes of depression in young adults of ages
between18-25 in the UK. Besides that, it is explained about that what are the reasons of
depression in them such as abuse, genetics, mental health issues, etc. Which lead to depression.
Moreover, it is explained that there are various effects of depression in young adults. Their
mental and physical health is highly impacted in a negative way. Furthermore, there are several
stages of depression like mild, severe, etc and that needs to be managed in an effective way.
There are different ways by which depression is managed such as doing exercise, yoga,
meditation, but in case of severe depression therapy and medication must be taken to manage it.
Alongside, it has been described about various support services which is available to young
adults that is family, friends, relatives, teacher, etc that helps in treating depression. It has been
found that the main cause of depression in young adults of age 18-25 is abuse. They suffer from
mild stage of depression and common use social support is parents and GP.

Table of contents
ABSTRACT.........................................................................................................................................
CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION..........................................................................................................
Rationale...............................................................................................................................................
Dissertation structure............................................................................................................................
CHAPTER 2 LITERATURE REVIEW...............................................................................................
CHAPTER 3 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY.................................................................................
CHAPTER 4 DISCUSSION..............................................................................................................
CHAPTER 5 CONCLUSION............................................................................................................
REFERENCES...................................................................................................................................

CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION
Background
In recent times, the major concern after covid 19 in the world is depression. It is found that
people suffer from depression in various stages of their life. But it is found that most adults
between age 22- 40 suffers from depression to a great extent (Friedrich, 2017). It is because this
is the age where adults must focus on their career goals, family responsibility, job, etc. and many
other things. So, these all leads to depression which highly impact on their physical as well as
mental health. In addition, it is important to find out causes and symptoms of depression so that
it becomes easy to treat it. Along with it, there is also need to identify issues due to which person
suffers from depression. In a study done in 26 nations it has been found that depression is
primary driver of disability in people. In 2014 in UK there 19.7% of adults of age over 18
showed symptoms of depression as compared to 2013. This means that there is rise of 1.5% in
adults. There are over 1 out of 4 people in UK that suffer from mental health problem in UK.
Basically depression is most common in age of 18- 25 that is around 10.9%. There were around
7.5 million young people aged 16–24 in the UK in 2012, making them about 12% of population.
About 75% of them are satisfied with their health and only 12% report a long term illness or
disability. Depression is highly increasing year by year in adults due to change in their lifestyle,
pressure from family, lack of healthy diet, exercise, etc. Thus, their mental and physical health is
affected in negative way (LeMoult, and Gotlib, 2019). Besides, due to lack of awareness as well
many adults are not able to identify symptoms of depression. So, they do not get treatment on
time which results in leading to severe level of depression. Having a mental illness in young
generation still remain prevalent.
Depression is common mental disorder that results in change in mood, anxiety, low self
worth, feeling of guilt, etc. there are different symptoms of depression which may vary from
person to person. The most common symptoms are mood swings, feeling sad, hopeless, change
in behaviour such as loss of interest, cognitive abilities like inability of concentrate, lack of sleep,
insomnia, etc. Apart from it, there are various causes of depression such as family history, brain
structure, medical conditions, drug use, etc. (Park, and Zarate Jr,2019). It is easy to find out
symptoms of depression in people just by observing their behaviour and asking questions about
mood, sleep pattern, thoughts, etc. Usually, there are two types of depression which are major
depressive disorder and persistent depressive disorder. The major depressive is severe form of

depression which is identified through felling of sadness, hopefulness, and many more. In this
the symptoms are frequent loss of weight, not able to sleep, fatigue, feeling guilt, etc. Moreover,
there are several sub types as well of this disorder that are anxious distress, atypical feature,
seasonal pattern, etc. the persistent disorder is mild depression and is also known as dysthymia.
Here, symptoms are same but they are not severe (Putnam, Wilcox, and Apter, 2017).
Furthermore, there are various ways of treating depression like medications, light therapy,
psychotherapy, and others. Alongside, there are natural ways of treating it as well that is SAM’e,
5- HTP, Omega-3 fatty acid, and many more. The depression can be treated with help of
providing social support services, communication, exercise, yoga, meditation, etc. But it depends
on stage of depression that what treatment or therapy is required in that.
Depression is a mental health problem that involves low mood and loss of interest in
activities of individuals. Depression can be described in several ways and through several
characteristics and among all feeling of sadness, loss and anger is most common symptoms and
characteristics of depression. Concerned with effect of depression, it affects people from all
walks of life regardless of background, age and gender. There are different types of depression
and these include Major Depressive Disorder, persistent depressive disorder also known as
dysthymia, bipolar depression, perinatal or post-partum depression, premenstrual dysphoric
disorder, seasonal affective disorder, situational depression, and atypical depression (Fajkowska,
Domaradzka and Wytykowska, 2018). Types of depression differentiate on the basis of how long
depression lasts and also what impact does depression have on individuals. This means that
major depressive disorder lasts everyday for more than 2 weeks, persistent depressive disorder
lasts 2 years or longer than that. Bipolar depression alternate lows with high and manic energy
and similarly every type of depression have different impact on individuals. In this Major
depression can result in severe impairment that interfere with or limit ability of individual to
carry out important life events. Young adults are likely to get affected by depression as any other
age group of individuals. The causes of depression for young people involve genes and family
tendency and based on this it can be determined whether individual is susceptible to disease or
not. However, this is not only reason because of which they become susceptible for disease and
get affected by this. Young adults are likely to experience depression because of several other
reasons and in modern society young people are fed information and this is likely to put pressure
on them which is completely unrealistic. In addition to this, those who are in school can also

experience depression because of change of school or also because of experiences like bullying.
They can create negative forces and lead individual towards depression. For young adults’
stressful relationship is also a cause for depression in which their mental state can get negatively
affected because of their relationship. However, early assessment and treatment of depression
can enhance quality of life of individuals as it is not something untreatable (Qin and et.al., 2018).
Signs and symptoms include moodiness and irritability, changes in sleeping and eating patterns,
fatigue and lack of energy, difficulty in having concentration and feeling unhappiness, miserable
and lonely. Following are aim and objectives of this study that reflect what will be achieved from
this study regarding depression in Young people of age 18-25 in UK.
Aims and objectives
Aim – To analyse how depression is affecting on mental and physical health of young people of
age 18-25 in UK.
Objectives
% To establish the issues that lead to depression amongst young people.
% To explore effects and implications of depression among study group.
% To establish and evaluate the support services available to young people.
Research question
% What are the issues that lead to depression amongst young people?
% What are the effects and implications of depression among study group?
% How support services can be provided to young people?
Rationale
This study aims at establishing issues because of which young people experience
depression and to identify early stages of depression and also to evaluate support services
available for young people when they experience depression. In order to treat and prevent
depression and specifically major depression and persistent depression, it is very important that
firstly issues are identified that causes and lead young people to depression (Park and Zarate Jr,
2019). This is because to solve problem reasons identification and solution of reasons causing
problem is important. Without having adequate knowledge of what causes depression treatment
for depression cannot be done effectively. Along with this, prevention of depression in young
adults can also be done through knowledge of causes of depression. Avoidance and dealing with
these causes can help preventing depression in young adults. This is why this study aim to

establish issues that lead to depression among young people. This study has another aim that is to
identify early stage of depression and how it is managed in early stage to that its impact on life of
young people can be avoided. This is because treatment of depression in later stage is more
difficult and impact also becomes strong however treatment of depression at early stage can help
in ensuring that young people can live a quality life. Another aim of this study is to evaluate
support services available for young people (Friedrich, 2017). With increasing cases of
depression and young people getting strongly affected by depression it has become very
important that countries have strong support system for young people who are experiencing
depression. This is why it has been included in study.
This study will be beneficial for identification and analysis of different causes of
depression in young people and will fill gap where reason and treatment of depression is
collectively stated. Depression is increasing at fast pace and this is why study to identify newly
added factors and contributors in depression for young people. This means that there have been
several new additions in life of young people which is likely to cause and contribute to
developing depression. This is why it is important that latest study is done to identify these
causes of depression. Similarly, improvement in technology and mechanism for treatment of
depression and this study will work on identifying developments in diagnosis of depression at
early stage and also how it can be managed at early stage. Lastly, considering impact of
depression on quality of life of people measures are being taken to support young people and this
study will also work on identifying what are those supports availed for young people. In addition
to this different supports will also be evaluated to understand how effective they are in
management of depression and providing support to young people with depression. This means
that this study will work on identifying and evaluating causes, diagnosis, management and
support system for depression. Additionally, this study will also work on identifying latest
development in relation with depression which involves developments in diagnosis and also in
terms of factors causing depression to young people. This study will be beneficial for further
research for development of science for depression and also for society in general. This is
because increasing depression has a strong requirement that individuals are equipped with
knowledge of depression and how it can be managed so that they can prevent depression and its
impact.

Dissertation structure
It describes the overall structure of project and its different chapters. They are discussed
in a systematic way which makes it easy for user to understand each chapter in a proper manner.
Also, it is easy to evaluate what is included in each chapter.
Chapter 1 Introduction – This is the first chapter which will give an overview of overall
research topic. Here, researcher will describe background, aim, objectives, research questions,
etc. that have to be achieved (Ramlaul, 2020).
Chapter 2 Literature review- It is the second chapter in which researcher will analyse
secondary data from different research articles, journals, etc. Here, the topic is discussed in depth
regarding what other authors have contributed in past. The secondary data is collected and
analysed which makes it easy for user to know what subject all is about.
Chapter 3 Research methodology – This chapter will describe about different types of research
methods which will be used or applied by the researcher in project. It will give an overview
about how overall research will be conducted and what methods are used.
Chapter 4 Discussion- In this, the results are discussed which will show findings of overall
research. The researcher will do in depth discussion of data and info interpreted by collecting
secondary data. This will make it easy for the user to evaluate overall findings (Ramlaul, 2020).
Chapter 6 Conclusion – It is the last chapter in which conclusion is done. Here, researcher
shows what is concluded after completing the project. This chapter gives an insight that about
findings of data and info.

CHAPTER 2 LITERATURE REVIEW
Issues that lead to depression amongst young people
Introduction
It is necessary to find out the issue which result in depression in young people. As
depression is most common problem that is being faced by adult and young people. It has highly
impacting on their mental and physical health. Depression highly affect mood as well as
behaviour of person. It has been found that there are many causes or issues of depression. But it
differs from person to person and on the issues as well.
As said by Wigner and Sliwinski, (2018), depression is most common problem that is
being faced by adult and young people. It has highly impacting on their mental and physical
health. Depression highly affect mood as well as behaviour of person. It has been found that
there are many causes or issues of depression. But it differs from person to person. This is
because it is said that in some person it might be due to presence of genetics of family history
and in some it might be due to conflict, abuse etc. it is found that anxiety and depression are
most common in women of UK between age 18- 24 years. Here, 31% of women suffer from
depression and there is increase of 5 % in that. Also, it is found that there is 7% decline in
satisfaction of young people in regard with their health in UK. There are multiple factors that
have led to younger population undergo different phases of depression. It is amongst the few
diseases that is affecting the people from 18 to 25 years. Firstly, with growing competition at the
global level and rise of technological advances has made it difficult for them to survive. Going
into a college is becoming very complex as they must try to prove their mettle with different
extracurricular activities. Earlier the kids were going to college to learn traditional ways of
teaching. However, with YouTube and e learning platforms, the competition is aggressive and
the parents expect kids to be smart. This is pressuring for the average students or the ones who
want to pursue something unconventional such as playing a sport, pursuing a dance form or
starting a business only. Next is the exposure to social media platforms that is putting a certain
amount of undue influence on the ways the children/students must look or behave. Suddenly a
person of 20 years old is expecting to behave like a 25 years so that he or she can do the work
more professionally. It is unacceptable expectations from them as they are still in their learning
phase. Exploitation of them in the name of internships or giving knowledge on a few topics is

very unwelcoming. It leads to anxiety, shakes confidence and also impact the mental health. But
there are different issues that led to depression. They are as follows:
Abuse- It is one of main issue of depression in young people. There are many adults and
youngsters who are being abused by any person. So, when they are abused it led to affecting
their behaviour, mood, etc. however, there are different types of abuse which adult can face that
is physical, sexual, emotional, etc. These all can result in depression. Moreover, when a person is
abused then it changes his or her behaviour. It directly effects on their mental health.
Conflicts- It is also an issue that led to depression. In this it is found that there occur various
conflicts in people life. The conflict may be in family, personal, with friends, relatives, etc. Thus,
it effects on behaviour and mood. Moreover, person mental health is impacted as he or she start
thinking about solving conflict. Here, personal problem or due to mental illness person can suffer
from depression.
Death or loss- This issue results in grief or sadness that can also led to depression. The death or
loss of loved ones, friend, etc. results in depression. Furthermore, it is a natural process that
increases risk of depression. In this situation a person remains sad most of time, he or she think
of loss of loved ones, relative, etc. Also, person do not like to talk to another person and prefer
loneliness.
Gender- It is a natural issue in which there is found that women are most likely to suffer from
depression as compared to men. This is because of hormonal change that occur in women.
Furthermore, women have to deal with various things at different times that may affect on their
lives to a great extent. Likewise, in adults as well due to maturity and hormonal change women
is likely to suffer from depression (Azim, and Baig, 2019).
Major events- there can occur different major event due to which young people of age 18-25 may
suffer from depression. Therefore, the event that can occur are loss of job, getting married, not
getting job, loss of income, etc. are example of event. These all can also lead to depression. It is
because young people response to these in stressful way. So, it releases a syndrome of clinical
depression. This impact on behaviour in negative way.
Serious illness- It has been found that sometime depression may occur due to serious illness or
some other medication problems in young people of age 18-25. Sometimes, it happens that a
person is not able to recover from health issue or disease. Thus, it also led to depression. Apart

from it, taking of wrong medication such as isotretinoin, interferon, etc. increases risk of
depression.
Genes- Usually, here person whose family history can increase risk of depression. Basically, due
to genes in young person father or mother it also contributes in depression. In this genetics of
depression are psychiatric disorder, cystic fibrosis, etc.
As elucidated by Tang, Zhang, and Zhu, (2020), these all are some issues due to which
depression may occur. But it depends from person to person. However, common issue that led to
depression is abuse, major event, etc. Young people are abused by people that affect their mental
health. Hence, they become victim of depression. The physical and sexual abuse has increased in
UK among young people. Due to that they are being suffering from depression. The young
people are coming with a lot of complaints regarding abuse. So, it is also reason of rise in
depression in age 18-25. With increasing cases of depression and young people getting strongly
affected by depression it has become very important that countries have strong support system
for young people who are experiencing depression.
Effects and implications of depression among study group
Introduction
There is a great effect of depression among young people. The effect may vary from
normal to severe. Also, the effect may be on mental or physical health. Depression in young
people often co-occurs with other mental disorders, most commonly anxiety disruptive
behaviour, or substance abuse disorder.
In the view of Qin and et.al., (2018), depression in young people is rising rapidly.
Furthermore, another thing that has led to rise in cases is lockdown due to covid 19. Hence, all
physical activities are being closed in college, school, etc. so, it has led to loneliness in people as
they are not able meet and spend good time with friends. Furthermore, it has become difficult for
them to manage depression. This is because they are not getting enough social support from
relatives, friends, etc. It has been evaluated that there are different stages of depression from it
can be easily identified that whether depression is serious or normal. So, on basis of stage of
depression treatment is given to person. Also, it becomes easy to find out nature of depression as
well. Types of depression differentiate on the basis of how long depression lasts and also what
impact does depression have on individuals. Hence, the stages are as below:

Major depression- It is stage known as classic or unpopular depression. In this people suffer from
symptoms of depression. Also, they are not aware that is what is happening around them. Along
with that, it is severe form of depression. The symptoms are grief, lack of energy, fatigue, loss of
appetite, anxiety, loneliness, hopelessness, etc. The symptoms may last for months.
Persistent depression – this is also a stage in depression that is known as chronic depression. The
main symptoms of this are sadness, appetite change, memory problems, low self esteem, etc. It is
a long lasting form of depression but symptom can become less intense in week, month, etc. this
type of depression lasts for years and is part of normal life. Generally, in some people the
experience several episode of major depression during persistent one. So, it is known as double
depression.
Manic depression- The depression where there are periods of mania in which person feel
unhappy for some particular time period. This is also known as bipolar depression. The
symptoms in it are fatigue, lack of energy, sleep problems, etc. There are several forms of mania
in this they are hypomania, hallucinations, delusions, etc. (Monji,, 2021)
Depressive psychosis- People suffering from depression also face certain period of losing with
reality. So, it is known as psychosis. In this person experience hallucination and delusions. Apart
from it, in this there are some physical symptoms as well that is observed that is difficulty in
sitting, etc. It is normal form of depression.
Perinatal depression- this stage of depression which occur during pregnancy or after child birth.
Thus, it normally occurs in women. This can also occur due to hormonal changes. The symptoms
are mood swings, sadness, anxiety, etc. They may occur day to day changes in level of
depression. Besides that, women face lack of sleep and physical discomfort in it. Hence, women
require a lot of social support in order to overcome depression.
Wigner, and Sliwinski, (2018), stated that it is important to manage depression so that the
person can overcome from it. Besides that, treatment of depression depends on its type and stage.
Generally, in young people it is important to manage depression as they are at high risk of
suffering from it. Moreover, they are more number of adults suffering from depression as
compared to other age groups. Managing of depression is most difficult task as it requires proper
planning. Therefore, there are various ways of managing and treating of depression that is
defined as below:

Medications- This is most common way to manage depression. In this there are various types of
medication that is available by which depression is managed. Here, for example- SSRI drugs,
SNRI drug, atypical and tricyclic antidepressants, etc. These all help in treating of depression.
Furthermore, it is important to choose to right meditation in it so that it can be given to person.
Alongside, doctor can also prescribe two or more than two medication such as mood stabilizer
which can be useful in treating depression.
Psychotherapy- It helps in treating depression by talking about condition and related issues with
a mental health professional. Psychotherapy is also known as talk therapy or psychological
therapy.
Different types of psychotherapy can be effective for depression, such as cognitive behavioural
therapy or interpersonal therapy. The mental health professional may also recommend other
types of therapies. There are many other types of therapies as well which can be provided such as
face to face sessions, online sessions, etc. to patient in order to treat depression. In addition, there
are many apps available as well of managing depression.
Other managing options- There are many other options as well that can be used to manage
depression. Here, first is by doing exercise or meditation depression can be managed. Also, by
sharing of views, opinions, etc. depression is managed. The best way is to get social support by
which depression is managed. The support can be of either family, friends, relatives, etc. that
helps in treating depression.
(stated that the managing of depression depends on which stage depression is. This means
if stage is higher than treatment is completely different. In that focus in on giving high dose
medications as well as various therapies. But on contrary if depression is at early stage then
focus is on practicing exercise, yoga, meditation, etc. in order to treat depression. Therefore, it is
essential that depression stage must be identified to manage it in effective way. This makes
things easy to determine that what type of treatment is preferable in that.
Support services available to young people
Introduction
In order to overcome depression there is need of support services which is available. The
services can be in form of health care, social, emotional, etc. this helps in treating of depression
in effective way. However, the use of support services depends on person needs. Thus, for young
people as well there are various types of support services available.

In the view of Ozamiz-Etxebarria. and Idoiaga-Mondragon,, (2020), young people of age
18- 25 are having more social support as compared to other age group people. It is because they
study in college where they make a lot of friends and expand their social support. Also, it is an
age group where young people likes to meet new people and make friends. When young people
suffer from depression they require social support. This is because social support is necessary in
treating depression. Alongside, there are many organization and health care associations as well
who provide social support to young people in treating depression. Besides, social support
services are as:
Self-help groups- In UK there are many self-help groups who are engaged in treating depression.
These self-help groups consist of people of different age and profession. They talk with young
people and provide them necessary support services.
GP- it is also a social support service available to young people. The youngsters can directly visit
their GP that will help them to overcome and treat depression. GP are experienced professionals
who know how to deal with young people suffering from depression. So, they support by saying
to follow various practice such as yoga, meditation, exercise, etc. to manage depression. The GP
may also tell them to visit psychiatrist who will help in giving therapy or medication.
Parents and friends- This is the most crucial social support that is available to young people. The
parents and relatives of people can provide them support to manage depression. Moreover,
young people are having many friends thus they can easily share their problem with them.
Therefore, both parents and friends provide support to them in treating depression.
Teachers and mentors- It is also social support available to young people. The teachers and
mentors can also help them to manage depression in effective way. They can both guide and help
young people to practice yoga and suggest ways on how they can treat depression. Hence, this
social support can also with parents and health care workers to help people to treat depression.
In this study done by Friedrich, (2017), it is found that in UK there are various social
groups that are formed to provide help and support to young people to treat depression. These
groups work with young people and help in improving their lifestyle. However, young people,
parents and caregivers don’t have to struggle alone; expert psychiatric support for children and
adolescents is available, and the most crucial first step is to seek specialist treatment. The action
for children organization also provide social support to them. They provide all type of support to
them in effective way. The government have also emphasized on giving social support to young

people in order to overcome depression. For that social, financial, etc. support is being given to
them. This is making the youth feel more under confident and giving self-doubt that is creating
more anxiety and leads to depression that is hampering their physical health as well.

CHAPTER 3 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
There is need to do research in proper way by selecting appropriate methods. The use of
method depends on type and nature of study topic and subject. It gives an overview to user that
what methods have been used. Also, it becomes easy for the researcher to process further in step
by step way. A research methodology is a complete framework in which different methods are
analysed. So, by reviewing the methods, researcher can easily identify which method he or she
has used. In research methodology, the methods discussed are as below:
Research philosophy
This is the first element described by researcher. It gives an overview about overall
researcher is been done. It becomes easy for researcher to proceed further after selecting
philosophy. There are several types of researcher philosophies which can be used that are
pragmatism, positivism, realism or interpretivism. It mainly deals with development of
knowledge, nature and with its source. In other words, it is about the information that is gathered,
examined and used in systematic way. Pragmatism research by taking only one point of view and
gives results in multiple realities. It considers only research question as its determinant. Realism
is based on assumption of scientific approach. In interpretivism two approaches are grouped
together. It highly focuses on issues related to topic. In this study positivism philosophy is taken.
This is because it will help in gaining in depth knowledge and understanding about topic.
Research strategy-
The strategy is process that is used in gathering of data. The two types of strategies that
are quantitative and qualitative. Thus, in qualitative the main aim is to gather more data and info.
In this secondary data is collected to know more about topic and subject. This is a simple method
and it takes less time to collect relevant data and info. There is also facts and figures gathered to
understand subject in more detail. But in quantitative there is only numeric data and info is
collected. This allows in gathering of relevant data and info and also easily attain goals and
objectives. Basically, quantitative strategy relates with numeric data and mathematics. Thus,
scholar has used only qualitative data. In this there is only secondary data is collected. It is
because of gather in depth info about depression in young people of age 18-25.
Research approach

It refers to procedure in which scholar define that how data will be collected. It enables in
doing study in proper way. So, there are 3 approaches that can be followed in research. They are
deductive, inductive and abductive. Inductive approach focus on emergence of innovative
theories and concepts that is obtained from the hypothesis. And in deductive validity of
assumptions are made in it. It led to verifying theory and coming to conclusion. In abductive
approach, some facts and figures are generated to be explained to complete process is dedicated
to statement of researchers. There is no involvement of hypothesis in the inductive approach. Its
objectives and aim should be attained during the research process. In current study, scholar will
use inductive approach. This will enable to generate new theories related to depression and
behaviour of young people. Also, as research is secondary so inductive approach will be suitable
in this as there is no hypothesis involved in it.
Research design –
It is an overall plan that enables in doing study in systematic and proper way. With that it
becomes easy to obtain outcomes in effective way. Besides, data is collected properly. So, there
are two strategies there that is exploratory and conclusive. So, in exploratory the data is collected
to find out more about topic and subject. Basically, it means to obtain more and in depth info
about topic and further investigate it. Also, the design helps in giving answer to research
question in effective way. The conclusive design gives conclusion of study. In this generally
casual is used which define cause and effect relationship. Therefore, in this research exploratory
design is used. It is because it will enable in finding out what are issues of depression, stages in
it, etc. Apart from it, it will be analysed what are social support available to young people.
Data collection
It is necessary to gather data in proper way so that accurate and relevant outcomes are
attained. Data collection is method of gathering of data from relevant and precise sources. Also,
it includes examining and analysing of info in order to generate relevant outcomes. There are 2
common method used in it that is primary and secondary. In primary first time data is collected.
So, the techniques used in it are questionnaire, survey, interview, etc. It is suitable method and
simple method as data is directly collected. And in secondary method the data is gathered from
previous articles, journals, books, etc. Here, info is evaluated in depth so that only relevant and
required data related to topic is obtained. This method is used to collect more info and have in
depth understanding about research topic and subject. In this research only secondary data

method is used. This is because it will help to understand topic in more depth. Besides that, due
to pandemic it is not possible to collect primary data.
Sampling
By identifying the data collection method, next step done is data sampling. In this,
researcher divides population into different categories based on certain factors such as age,
gender, etc. This helps in targeting the right people and then collecting data. Sampling is done to
filter population for gathering data. The filter criteria can be on basis of age, gender,
demography, geography, etc. This can be done by using two techniques that is probability and
non-probability. As name shows probability means that all sample is having equal of getting
selected. In this probability is equal. In non-probability sample is having unequal chance. The
probability is unequal in this. There are various techniques in probability like stratified, simple,
cluster, etc. and in non-probability, it is multistage, purposive, etc.
Data analysis
It is necessary to interpret data in proper way so that accurate and relevant outcomes are
obtained. The overall study results are based on data analysis. So, it requires scholar to analyse
data and info properly. Data analysis is process to examine and interpret info to achieve aims and
objectives. Here, it requires scholar to have in depth knowledge about various data analysis
techniques. Thus, accordingly the technique is selected and then analysis is done. The researcher
must be able to analyse data in an effective way so that aim and objectives will be effectually
attained. Moreover, to get the desired outcomes, proper analysis technique must be used. In order
to interpret data, there will be various tools and techniques as well as methods available. The
selection of data analysis techniques also depends on the nature and info gathered. Therefore, in
current study thematic data analysis technique is chosen. It is because the technique is simple and
easy to understand. Moreover, results obtained is on basis of themes so easily understood by
user.
Ethics
There is need to follow certain ethics while doing research. This is because the ethics
enable in following certain rules and regulation. With that it becomes easy to conduct study in
proper and ethical way. So, firstly researcher will maintain the privacy and security of all data
and info collected. The outcomes of study will not be shared with any business or person. Then,
secondly scholar will ensure that dignity, ethics, values, etc. is maintained. Any religious

sentiments will not be harmed. Besides that, the data will be stored and secured in server or
computer system. Its confidentiality is maintained and ensured.
Validity
Usually, validity means extent to which right tools and equipment are used in research.
The tools used helps in interpreting data in accurate and reliable way. So, internal and external
are validity in study. If validity is not maintained than it can impact on overall outcomes. Hence,
here scholar will maintain validity by making sure that data is gathered from authentic and
relevant source. Besides that, the journals, articles, selected in it will be from relevant search
engine website. Furthermore, articles selected will be from PubMed, google scholar, etc. and
from various other authentic search engines.

CHAPTER 4 DISCUSSION
It has been found that depression is rapidly increasing in young people of age 18-25 in UK.
Also, there has been various symptoms that is being observed in them. In spite of having social
support they are not able to overcome depression in effective way.
Main cause of increase in depression in young people age 18-25
It can be found that the main cause of depression in young people is due to abuse or
stress. Due to that they are not able to communicate with others. Besides that, there is lack of
sleep, anxiety, etc. by which people are not able to share their views. They feel lonely and
remains hopeless most of time. In addition to it, in depression mental health is adversely affected
due to which young people are not able to make focus on their studies as well. Besides that,
when young adults are being abused they like to remain lonely. Also, they think again and again
of that incident in their mind. Along with that, they are not able to get enough sleep. Moreover,
through their behaviour depression is easily observed. They do not communicate or interact with
family members, friends, relatives, etc. it has been found that female remain more depressed as
compared to males in young people in case of abuse. This is because female is more sensitive
than males. In addition, there are more abuse being done on female in UK than male. It is
because female is easy target of physical, sexual abuse. When they are abused it create a negative
impact on their mind. Apart from it, they think that sharing of such incident with others result in
questioning their character. Therefore, they remain silent and lonely. Female feel more
hopelessness when cause of depression is abuse. There is constant change in their behaviour.
They also become irritative and start talking rudely with others. The young adult behaviour is
adversely affected due to depression. They are not able to deal and handle depression in effective
way. Another cause of depression is loss or death of close ones. Besides that, it has been
analysed that most young people are in stage of persistent and manic problems. Here, it is found
that the symptoms that are shown by them is low self-esteem, sadness, change in diet, etc. these
highly impact on their physical and mental health. Furthermore, the cause behind this stage of
depression is abuse, loss of loved ones. The main cause of youth when they suffer from
depression is lack of confidence. When they are not able to take proper and effective decision in
life then it result in stress. Apart from that, around 9.7% of adult are not able to take decision
regarding their education and career. Thus, they are not able to interact with parents and teachers.
So, they do not get social support. Here, when youngster compare themselves with other success,

lifestyle, etc. then they realize that they are far behind from them. This led to sadness and grief
among them due to which they start feeling depressed. Hence, it is also reason in depression in
young people of age 18- 25. There are multiple factors that have led to younger population
undergo different phases of depression. It is amongst the few diseases that is affecting the people
from 18 to 25 years. Firstly, with growing competition at the global level and rise of
technological advances has made it difficult for them to survive. However, with YouTube and e
learning platforms, the competition is aggressive and the parents expect kids to be smart. This is
pressuring for the average students or the ones who want to pursue something unconventional
such as playing a sport, pursuing a dance form or starting a business only (Friedrich, 2017). Next
is the exposure to social media platforms that is putting a certain amount of undue influence on
the ways the children/students must look or behave. Suddenly a person of 20 years old is
expecting to behave like a 25 years so that he or she can do the work more professionally. It is
unacceptable expectations from them as they are still in their learning phase. It leads to anxiety,
shakes confidence and also impact the mental health. This is making the youth feel more under
confident and giving self-doubt that is creating more anxiety and leads to depression that is
hampering their physical health as well. The physical and sexual abuse has increased in UK
among young people. Due to that they are being suffering from depression. The young people
are coming with a lot of complaints regarding abuse. So, it is also reason of rise in depression in
age 18-25.
As explained by Qin and et.al., (2018) effects of depression among young people might
vary from person to person and its implications can be seen on mental or physical health of a
person. Some of the most common effects of depression seen within individuals is in form of
different kinds of mental health disorders or problems such as: anxiety, disruptive behaviour,
involvement in substance or alcohol abuse and many other kinds of problems. In the current
Covid-19 situation physical activities of people has been reduced. As young adults are addicted
to travel, do physical exercises, meet friends and families etc. But due to this current pandemic
situation all such kind of activities have reduced. It has further made it difficult for young adults
to deal with stress and depression.
And in maniac depression stage the cause of depression is genes, serious illness, etc. in
this it is evaluated that the depression occurs for some time period. For example- when an adult
gets ill then he or she suffer from depression. But after when illness is overcome then depression

is also overcome. But this does not occur in all cases. However, in some case the depression
moves to further next stage. This is because of the person is not able to cope with cause of
depression for long time. It is necessary to identify the stage of depression so that it becomes
easy to treat it. It is because treatment depends on stage of depression. There are natural ways of
treating it as well that is SAM’e, 5- HTP, Omega-3 fatty acid, and many more. The depression
can be treated with help of providing social support services, communication, exercise, yoga,
meditation, etc. around 32.4% of adults are doing exercise and yoga to overcome depression.
They have also made changes in their diet. Besides, due to lack of awareness as well many adults
are not able to identify symptoms of depression. So, they do not get treatment in time which
results in leading to severe level of depression. This was found in 5.6% of adults.
Most common treatment measures used to treat depression
It has been discussed that medication and psychotherapy are most common way of
treating depression. Many of young people also prefer medication to be taken to treat depression.
Usually, in initial stage of depression medication is used to treat it. The person is easily treated
and overcome depression from it. There are many young adults who are taking psychotherapy to
treat depression. It is found that One adult in eight that is 12.1% receives mental health
treatment, with 10.4% receiving medication and 3% receiving psychological therapy. The
overlap within the statistics is due to 1.3% of those receiving treatment reporting receiving both
medication and psychological therapy.
It has been said that there is inequality found in treatment in depression as well. Here,
women are more likely to get or receive treatment as compared to men. In this 15% of women
receive treatment than 9% men. Along with that, it is found young people of age group 15-24 get
less treatment as compared to old age people. In addition to it, British people get treatment that is
13.3% as compare to BAME group that is 7%. And in black minorities ethnic group the
percentage is 6.2%. due to this inequality in treating depression there is rise in cases in young
people of age 15-24 than old age people. There is no specific policy which is formed to ensure
that both young and old age people get equal treatment. The young people are not having
knowledge and skills on how to manage depression. When they get treatment the stage of
depression is major. Hence, it is difficult to treat stage through medication only.
Support services young people take in treating depression

In the view of Aalbers and et.al., (2019) there are many support services available to
young people for treating of depression. The main support service young people of age 15-24
prefer is self-help groups. For example, the groups such as FABS, FYA, families need father,
Friday club, etc. these groups operate in different areas in UK. They provide social, emotional,
physical, etc. support to young people who are suffering from depression. The main purpose of
group is to help young and old age people to overcome mental health problems. 79% stated self-
help group said that their main group activity was self-help and social support, with 72% of their
activities relating to consulting with decision makers and 69% being involvement in education
and training.
It is analysed that in social support parents and friends provide important support to
young people. In almost 80% of cases the parents and friends help in giving social and emotional
support. Moreover, they are the people who remain close to youngsters and are aware about their
behaviour. besides that, it is also easy for them to talk and interact with in order to find out what
the issue is, how it can be deal, etc. hence, by sharing views and communicating with young
people social support is provided. Furthermore, teachers and mentor also help young people to
overcome depression. They communicate with them and notice change in behaviour. thus, on
basis of that they give advice to them that how depression is treated. Teacher and mentor help in
decision making as well. They provide financial and emotional support as well. They ask them to
practice yoga, do exercise, take healthy diet, etc. but these all support is not provided by self-help
groups. They only help in social way by allowing young people to engage with them and also in
various social activities. However, these support services can only be applied when the stage of
depression is maniac or persistent. In major depression stage the self-help group is not useful.
Here, only GP or psychiatrist help is taken. Therefore, in UK 63% of young people of age 15-24
believe that GP support is more useful. They take help of GP and not self-care groups. They
approach to group only when depression stage is normal.
Effect of depression on young people
It has been found that there are various kinds of depression and effect of each type of
depression is completely different on different people. First type of depression is major
depression in which people are completely unaware of the fact what is happening around them.
Effect of this depression of young people is quite severe as such adults remain in grief, lose their
appetite, feel hopeless, their overall self-esteem reduces. If it is not taken care in timely manner,

then it can affect their memory as well. This type of depression last for years and can affect
physical health of an individual as well. This Covid-29 situation has made this major depression
consistent within some individual’s lives which is known as double depression. Another type of
depression that affect physical and mental health of an individual is maniac depression in which
a person feels depressed for specific period of time. Due to this depression adult feel lack of
energy, face sleeping problems, hallucinate, have delusions etc. Perinatal depression is another
type of depression which mostly effect women. It can be caused due to hormonal changes within
women. Last type of depression is Depressive psychosis in which a person loses reality and starts
hallucinating. It is found that many of them were not able to sleep properly, they become
anxious, hopeless, etc. besides that, it found that most common symptom observed is that there is
change in behaviour of young people. The remain silent and depressed and do not like to talk to
others. So, it clearly shows symptoms of depression. Also, there is constant change in their
behaviour due to which it is impacting on their mental health
As elaborated by Wigner, and Sliwinski, (2018) it is extremely important to identify type
of depression from which young adults are suffering from because its implications on a person a
sever and can impact both physical and mental health of an individual. In order to reduce its
negative impact upon an individual it is important to timely identify type of depression from
which young adults are suffering from so that appropriate treatment can be given to them
because different types of depression have different treatment including therapies, medicines and
other management options. It has further been analysed that treatment of depression completely
depends upon stage of depression as it increases effectiveness of treatment of depression. Due to
this it becomes important to identify and understand type of treatment that will be effective upon
individual suffering from depression so that its negative effects upon individual and their overall
health can be reduced and it can be managed in an effective manner. It further helps in enhancing
overall quality of life of individuals.

CHAPTER 5 CONCLUSION
Based on the findings from this study it can be concluded that main cause of depression in
young people of age 18- 25 is due to abuse or stress. Due to that they are not able to
communicate with others. Besides that, there is lack of sleep, anxiety, etc. by which people are
not able to share their views. They feel lonely and remains hopeless most of time. In addition to
it, in depression mental health is adversely affected due to which young people are not able to
make focus on their studies as well. Besides that, when young adults are being abused they like
to remain lonely. Also, they think again and again of that incident in their mind.
From the above project it has further been concluded that in this current pandemic
situation of Covid-19 most of the people are suffering from depression of different age groups
but mostly adults between age group of 18-25 years of age. It is majorly because this age group
people need to focus upon establishing their career, start taking their family responsibility etc.
due to this pressure and stress among this age group people have+ increased. Moreover, due to
this current pandemic situation pressure among this age group people have increased even more
because many people have lost their jobs, were forced to work in less salary etc. As a result,
most of the adults suffered depression, their mental health was being affected both directly and
indirectly. From the discussion it was concluded that in this 18-25 years of age group people are
more prone of suffering from depression. In UK 1 out of 4 people are prone of suffering from
depression because of which their physical and mental health are affected. People who are highly
likely to suffer from depression are people who go through change in their lifestyle, family
pressure, lack of healthy diet, lack of exercise or are made to do excessive exercise and many
other factors. It has further been identified that most of the people are not even aware of
symptoms of depression or reason because of which they are suffering from depression. As a
result, such people fail to get timely treatment which leads them towards severe depression. It is
important for young adults to identify symptoms of depression so that they can get a timely
treatment. Some of the most common symptoms of depression are: mood swings, low self-
worth, anxiety, feeling of guilt, sadness, hopelessness, losing interest in certain things etc.
It has further been summarized that it is important to focus upon identifying factors
because of which people suffer from depression especially in young adults because majorly of
young adults between age group of 18 to 25 years of age suffer from depression which impact
their successful fulfilment of responsibilities, job performance, etc. depression can result in

drastic change within mood of an individual. Many times, depression is due to family genetic
history or abusive relationship as well. From the above discussion it has further been concluded
that women are more prone of suffering from depression and this rate is increasing year by year
continuously. Some of the most common factors that had led youngsters to undergo depression is
due to increasing global level competition, advancement in technology because this
technological advancement has made survival and maintenance of personal life a bit difficult.
Due to this technological advancement, studies of studies have also become difficult in fact,
going to college and perusing higher education has become a stressful and difficult task. Today
students need to go through traditional education, extracurricular activities, learn advance and
new technology because of which burden upon children has increased drastically. student who
fails to cope up with this burden are prone to suffer from depression.
It has further been concluded from this project that today due to advancement in
technology it has become much easier for young adults to enhance their knowledge and become
aware of people who fail to achieve success. If outcome is negative then t can result in making
other young adults prone to suffer from depression easily if they see failure as they will be aware
of other conditions who failed to achieve desired outcome and if that young individual have their
presence on social media platforms, then this platform further increases pressure on those
individuals and can influence them as well as the manner in which they behave. Due to this,
various countries have taken an initiative to focus upon reducing depression and its causes
among young adults so that overall health such people can directly be enhanced and their quality
of life can be improved in a positive manner.
Implication of depression
Above project has further helped in concluding that there are various kinds of effects and
implications of depression among young adults. These effects of depression vary from person to
person and can differ ways in which it impacts mental and physical health of people. Most of the
young people who suffer from depression often suffer from various other kinds of mental illness
of issues such as anxiety, disruptive behaviour, substance abuse etc. In current pandemic
situation of Covid-19 changes of suffering from depression for young adults has increased and
severe effects of depression have been seen and observed among young adults. It has further
been identified that a greater number of individuals in this pandemic situation are suffering from
depression and as a result are becoming a victim of substance abuse, mental disorder etc.

lockdown situation in this pandemic had given boost to this increasing depression cases and is
becoming difficult for youngsters to deal with these symptoms of depression due to lack of
support of friends, family members etc.
Depression treatment
It has further been concluded that in order to identify and provide appropriate treatment
to individual suffering from depression it is important to identify type of depression they are
suffering from current stage of depression they are at. This information not only helps in
identification of time period till which depression within an individual will last but will also help
them in identification of seriousness and implications of depression within a person. This
information about type and stage of depression can directly help in management of depression
within an individual. This is majorly because only on the basis of this information practitioners
provide medication to depression patient, suggest psychotherapy for effective depression
management, take live sessions. It makes it much easier for healthcare practitioners to manage
symptoms of depression and reduce its effect upon an individual it not only helps in management
of depression symptoms but also helps in enhancing overall quality of life of patients and also
help in enhancing mental and physical health of individual in an effective and appropriate
manner.
Above project has further helped in concluding that there are various kinds of support
services that are available for people suffering from depression that can provide services in terms
of health care, environment, social care etc. It further helps in treatment of depression in an
effective and appropriate manner. provision of these support services depends upon person to
person. Young people can access these services for dealing with symptoms of depression and for
reducing its negative and drastic effect upon their lives, mental and physical health in an
effective manner. It was also identified that young adults of age group 18 to 25 years have more
social service support as compared to other age group people. This is majorly because young
adults have more friends and family members support as compared to other age group people.
This age group people love to meet and make new friends and people who are suffering from
depression and require their support. It can also be said that young adults are active in terms of
provision of support and provision of other social services to other young adults.
There are many other organizations whose main focus is to provide appropriate and
required social service and support in order to support young adults who are suffering from

depression. Some of the health care organizations also provide free treatment for management of
depression among people. Some of the most common type of support services that are available
for young adults for dealing, managing and treating depression are self- help group, parents and
friends, teachers and mentors etc. Out of all of these available support services parents and
friends are one of the best and most commonly used support services that can effectively help an
individual from dealing with depression. In fact, it is one of the most important and crucial
support which s required to be provided to young adults who are suffering from depression as
their support can directly young adults to deal with major depression symptoms because they can
easily share their problems, issues that are impacting them the most in an appropriate and
effective manner.
It has also been summarized that health and social care support such as support of general
practitioners is another important and effective support service that can help young adults to
manage their depression as GP can help them in dealing with depression symptoms with the help
of meditation, yoga, medicines, therapies and even if advance level treatment is required by
patient for dealing with advance level stage of depression then GP can further suggest them help
and support of psychiatrist who would give them advance and highly effective medicines and
therapies. In UK various kinds of social groups have also been formed for provision of services
and support required for management of depression so that young adults cab deal with its major
symptoms and enhance their overall quality of life in an effective and appropriate manner.
Recommendation
There are certain recommendations which can be followed by UK government to reduce
cases of depression and treat young people. Thus, they are as follows:
 The UK government should initiate certain awareness programs to make young people
aware about how they can treat depression. Thus, this will enable in promoting health in
people and changing their lifestyle.
 In schools and universities several programs and seminars can be organised to make
young aware about depression. With that they will gain knowledge about symptoms,
causes, etc. of depression and how it can be treated.
 There must be association formed of support people who provide support to young
people in treating depression. By that they can reach more number of adults and help
them to overcome depression.

Implication for study
The study can be useful in forming of policy in treating depression. In that several practices can
be included by which young adult can adopt it and then overcome depression. This will be highly
useful for support services as well.
The finding from study can be useful in taking corrective actions and measures by which crime,
abuse cases, etc. in young adult is identified and solved. Besides that, effect of depression is
identified and treated.
Reflective practice
As I did research for first time I took help of expert. He guided me in proper way on how
to do research. The study went in smooth way as we followed step a step. I faced some difficulty
in selecting of research methods and secondary data. So, this led to delay in gathering of data and
analysing it. Besides that, in doing discussion I was not able to do in proper way. I learned a lot
from it and gained knowledge that how research is done. Furthermore, I was nervous at starting
because I did not have any knowledge about what I have to do. But then, as research progressed I
was able to understand things and then worked accordingly.

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