Understanding Depression

You Are Not Alone

Leaving your home and starting a new life can bring many challenges.

It is normal to feel stress, sadness, or loneliness. But sometimes these feelings become very strong and last a long time. It’s important not to ignore that. This may be depression. If you feel this way, please know: you are not alone. Many people experience it, and help is available. Let’s talk a little about depression.

What is Depression?

Depression is more than just feeling sad. It is a health condition that affects your mind and body. Depression can make everyday life very difficult. It is not your fault and it does not mean you are weak.

What Are The Common Signs of Depression

Everyone is different, but some common symptoms are:

  • Feeling sad or empty most of the time
  • No energy or always tired
  • No interest in things you used to enjoy
  • Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
  • Feeling worthless or guilty
  • Problems with concentration
  • Thinking life is not worth living

If you notice these signs for more than two weeks, it may be depression. Remember, it is not about diagnosing yourself — doctors and professionals can do that. What matters is noticing the signs and making your mental health a priority. Taking care of your mind is a way of taking care of your life

Why It Matters?

Depression can happen to anyone. It does not mean you are “broken.” Like other health problems, depression can be treated. With the right support, people can feel better and live a full life.

Getting Help

If you think you may have depression, please reach out for support. You can:

  • Talk to your doctor or psychologist
  • Reach out to our Care Team during the drop in session
  • Contact another local refugee or migrant support organization
  • Call a crisis hotline if you are in danger of harming yourself

Asking for help is a brave and important step.

Self-Help: Small Steps You Can Try

While professional help is important, there are also small things you can do for yourself:

  • Talk to someone you trust about your feelings
  • Go for a walk or do gentle exercise
  • Keep a simple daily routine (eat, sleep, move)
  • Write down your thoughts in a notebook
  • Do something small that brings you joy (music, reading, prayer, nature)

You Are Not Alone

Depression can feel heavy, but it does not last forever. Support is possible. Healing is possible. Asking for help shows strength. You deserve care, kindness, and hope. You can find many places that offer help. Our Care Team is also here to support you. You can find us in the LP office from Monday till Friday.

Below you can find some useful references.

You can also visit our website with the External Contacts with other resources.

🚨 If You Are Thinking About Harming Yourself

If you ever feel like hurting yourself or believe life is not worth living, please remember: you do not have to go through this alone. Help is available right now.

  • Emergency number (police, ambulance, fire): dial 112
  • National Suicide Prevention Hotline: 1411 (free, 24/7, mental health professionals)
  • SOS Voz Amiga: 213 544 545 / 912 802 669 / 963 524 660 (daily, 16:00–24:00)

Where we are

Rua Carvalho Araújo 66-B
1900-140 Lisboa
Portugal

How to Get Here

  • Metro: Linha Verde (Green Line) - Intendente Station
  • Bus: 708, 730, 742, 794

Opening hours

Mon, Tue, Thu
10:00–12:30 & 14:00–17:30
Wednesday (Extended)
Until 19:30
Friday
Until 18:30
No appointment needed. Just walk in.

Contact info

+351 964 809 959