9 simple ways to help ease depression and anxiety

The one benefit of so many people suffering from depression and anxiety is the collective well of personal experience those going through a tough time can draw on.

People took to Reddit to share their top tips on what helped them to overcome their own depression or anxiety.

1. Learning to observe thoughts

2. Cutting down on the coffee

3. Getting to the bottom of it

4. Having a health kick

5. Getting a furry friend

6. Getting some love hormones

7. Distractions

8. Focus

9. Taking things step by step

If you are feeling vulnerable, upset or depressed there is always someone available to talk and help.

You can contact the Samaritans 24-hours a day for free via their website or phone line 116123

If you're LGBTQI and in need of someone to talk to, Switchboard LGBT offer advice and help every day from 10am to 10pm on their website and on 0300 330 0630

Alternatively, if you suspect a young person might be feeling suicidal, you can call Childlinefor help and advice on 0800 111

HT Medical Daily and the NHS

More: How to deal with anxiety