Depression

This information is general and is not a diagnosis or a substitute for advice from a qualified health professional.

What is depression?

We all feel sad, low or moody from time to time. It's a normal part of life. But when these feelings persist for more than two weeks and start to interfere with daily life, it may be a sign of depression.

Depression is a serious mental health condition that affects how a person thinks, feels and functions. It's more than just feeling sad. It can affect anyone, regardless of age, background or circumstances. Around 1 in 7 Australians will experience depression at some point in their lives.

Depression is treatable. With the right support, most people recover or learn to manage their symptoms effectively.

Common experiences and everyday impacts

Depression affects people differently, but common experiences include:

• Persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness or numbness
• Loss of interest in activities you usually enjoy
• Feeling tired all the time or having no energy
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Changes in sleep, such as sleeping too much or not enough
• Changes in appetite
• Feeling worthless, guilty or hopeless
• Withdrawing from family and friends
• In some cases, thoughts of self-harm or suicide

Depression can affect every part of a person's life, including work, study, relationships and physical health. It can make everyday tasks feel overwhelming. The impact varies from person to person, and recovery is possible at any stage.

Support options and seeking professional help

If you think you may be experiencing depression, your GP is a good first step. They can assess your symptoms, develop a mental health treatment plan and refer you to a psychologist or other mental health professional. Treatment options may include:

• Psychological therapy, such as cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT)
• Lifestyle changes, including exercise and healthy sleep habits
• Medication, prescribed and monitored by a doctor
• Support groups and peer support

Under a mental health treatment plan, Medicare provides rebates for sessions with eligible mental health professionals. You can also contact Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 (24/7) for free support.

Supporting someone with depression

If someone you know is experiencing depression, you can help by:

• Listening without judgement and taking their feelings seriously
• Staying in touch and letting them know you're there
• Encouraging them to seek professional help
• Being patient, as recovery takes time
• Looking after your own mental health and seeking support if you need it

If you're worried that someone may be at risk of self-harm or suicide, don't leave them alone. Call Triple Zero (000) or Lifeline on 13 11 14.

Reliable Australian resources

• Beyond Blue — Depression
• Healthdirect — Depression
• Black Dog Institute — Depression

Sources

• Beyond Blue — Depression (beyondblue.org.au/mental-health/depression)
• Healthdirect Australia — Depression (healthdirect.gov.au/depression)
• Black Dog Institute — Depression (blackdoginstitute.org.au)
• Australian Institute of Health and Welfare — Mental health (aihw.gov.au)

Need support? Contact your GP, a mental health professional, or call Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636. If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call Triple Zero (000).