Depression
Depression can happen to anyone. You don’t have to face it alone. There is help available.
Looking for help with depression?
We’ve just launched a curated library of tools, techniques and information to help you:
- Understand what you’re going through
- Learn ways to self-manage through evidence-based tools and techniques
- Access support, should you need it
What is depression?
Depression is a low mood and/or a loss of interest in activities once enjoyed. It can last for weeks, months or even years and often interferes with a person’s daily life, making it hard to cope. Understanding and recognising the symptoms in ourselves or others is an important step in managing depression. There are many effective ways to treat depression and many individuals go on to lead meaningful and productive lives.
Depression presents differently in different people and it is not always easy to know if someone is experiencing depression. Some common symptoms are:
- Feeling sad, ‘flat’ or down most of the time (for two weeks or more)
- Losing interest in activities you used to enjoy (for two weeks or more)
- Change in appetite, sudden weight loss or gain
- Having problems sleeping or sleeping all the time
- Feeling tired or lacking energy and motivation
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Feeling angry or lashing out
- Difficulty concentrating or being indecisive
- Increased alcohol and drug use
- Withdrawal from social interaction
- Thoughts of suicide
If you are feeling as though you or someone you know is struggling with depression, please contact your GP, and remember Lifeline is available 24/7 on 13 11 14.
There isn’t a set way to manage depression – what works for one person may not work for another, but there are certain things that may help you to cope:
- Talk to a someone you trust (e.g. friend, family member, religious or community leader, or GP). It is important to stay connected during this time.
- Go for a walk – exercise releases ‘happy’ hormones which increase feelings of wellbeing.
- Eat nutritious foods, try to get enough sleep, and avoid alcohol and other drugs.
- Stick to a routine wherever possible. The sense of having accomplished daily tasks will promote a sense of wellbeing.
- Plan and schedule in things you used to enjoy, even if you may not feel like doing them right now.
- Congratulate yourself on every task you achieve, no matter how small.
- Individual therapy with trained health professionals can provide a safe space to talk about your experience.
Some people may experience thoughts of suicide when they are feeling low or hopeless. It is critical that if you or someone you know is feeling this way that they seek immediate help.
It can be hard reaching out for help but there are a variety of services and supports available. Some suggestions are detailed below. If life is in danger, please call 000.
- Beyond Blue – a free helpline provides advice and support via telephone - 1300 22 4636 and Beyond Blue - Web Chat (between 3pm-12am)
- Mensline Australia - a 24/7 free online and phone counselling service for men - 1300 789 978
- Kids Helpline – free, confidential 24/7 online and phone counselling service for young people aged 5-25 - 1800 55 1800 or About WebChat Counselling | Kids Helpline
- Mindspot Clinic – provides free, anonymous assessment and treatment for adults experiencing depression mindspot.org.au
- E-couch depression program – a free, evidence-based program to help reduce depressive symptoms and improve your life. e-couch - self-help and information for common mental health issues (ecouch.com.au)
- This Way Up – online, evidence-based CBT course for depression. You can get instant access for $59 or speak with your GP to enrol for free Online Treatment Course for Depression | THIS WAY UP
- Moodfit – A free mental health app whose tools and insights can help to ‘shape up’ your mood. Moodfit | Fitness for Your Mental Health (getmoodfit.com)
- Attend your GP to create a mental health treatment plan. This plan entitles you to Medicare rebates for up to 20 sessions per year with some allied mental health professionals. See the Services Australia website for more information.
For Crisis Support contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, chat with us online at lifeline.org.au or text us on 0477 13 11 14. Lifeline services are available 24/7.
Dr Kieran's Story
Psychiatrist, Kieran, began his medical training keen to combine his love of academia with his love of caring. However, as he did his rounds of the wards alongside bullying bosses, determined to make him feel foolish, anxiety and depression set in. He often ended his shifts, sitting in his car and sobbing.
Although he was in the medical profession to help others, Dr Kieran didn’t feel he could ask for help himself and eventually tried to end his life.
Ultimately, he received the help he needed and now uses what he has learned on his journey to provide empathetic care to patients and advice to others.