Rise in anti-depressant prescriptions causes concern

An increasing number of Brits have been prescribed anti-depressant medications in recent years, new figures suggest.

Research from the University of Southampton found that over three-quarters of people displaying symptoms of depression between 1993 and 2005 were given these drugs in the first year of diagnosis.

Paul Corry, from national mental health Rethink, said: "Depression can be a very complex condition and most people with moderate to severe depression do best with both medication and psychological therapies working together.

"Primary Care Trusts need to invest in a range of psychological therapies so the appropriate help and choice is available without having to wait unacceptable lengths of time to access them."

While most episodes of depression naturally ease after eight months, sufferers are advised to seek different ways of managing the condition and preventing relapse, such as regular exercise, healthy diet, relaxation techniques and reducing alcohol intake.

According to the Mental Health Foundation, mixed anxiety and depression is the most common mental disorder in Britain.

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