Background: Depression is described as a widespread disease in Sweden and it is estimated that mental illness will increase. It is important that the nurse obtains knowledge of the patient's experience of living with depression in order to work from a patient's perspective and provide the best possible care.
Aim: The objective was to describe experiences of patients suffering from depression.
Method: A qualitative study was conducted using a content analysis based on seven autobiographies.
Results: The results are presented in four themes; Losing the grip, To experience the context and support and non-support, To find their own ways to deal with depression and loneliness and To receive care can be experienced both positive and negative.
Conclusion: Depression can be so severe that the patient’s attempting to self-soothe only worsens it. Health professionals, patients and relatives need more information and education to decrease the stigma of depression and increase knowledge about what it is like to live with depression.