Hugh Laurie recently won the Golden Globe Award as best TV actor for his portrayal of ‘House’ in the top-rating Channel 10 series. Actor and comedian Laurie also speaks openly about his depression, and how treatment has helped.

‘This was real depression, heavyweight unhappiness,’ says Laurie. ‘It went on for long periods of time and had all the other symptoms, like lethargy and not wanting to get out of bed in the morning. It affected everything – my family and friends.’

Laurie was finally diagnosed with clinical depression at the age of 37, and received a course of psychotherapy from a psychologist. ‘I found it incredibly helpful,’ he says, and though he still experiences symptoms at times, says his life is very different and much happier now.

See the SANE Guide to Depression for more information about symptoms, treatments and what people can do to help themselves.