First of all remember that just because you are getting the early symptoms of depression, it doesn't mean a slide into full depression. I'm still on medication, and just before christmas I started getting symptoms again and I was absolutely convinced that I would go all the way back down again. But I didn't - I managed to fight it off this time.

I agree that you should look into the possibility of SAD, since a tendency to want to sleep and overeat (especially carbohydrates) are a couple of things that can differentiate it from other types of depression - as well as occurring in the winter months. Did previous depressive periods begin in autumn/winter and tend to resolve in the springtime?

It took me until my 4th episode of winter depression to realise that I had SAD. I now use a light box and St John's Wort in the winter, but I still have to go back on anti depressants sometimes. The lightbox in a godsend to me - and you can buy them with a full refund if you send it back within 21 days because it doesn't work for you. So you won't be taking such a risk with your money. Lightboxes also work more quickly than antidepressants. I usually respond within 5 days.

Other tips: keep talking (to us if you don't feel comfortable talking to others). Try to get out in the fresh air and exercise even when you feel too lethargic and unmotivated. But DON'T beat yourself up over not doing things you think you are supposed to be doing.

Bagpuss