Depression
Depression does not discriminate. With understanding and the right treatment, we can help you lead a happy, fulfilling life.
About Depression
Learn about the signs, symptoms and causes of depression
Types of Depression
A depressive disorder can manifest itself in a number of ways, which is why it’s important for mental health professionals to develop targeted treatments for certain types of depression. A greater understanding of depression and its different forms is a great first step towards getting help. Some common diagnoses include:
Major (Clinical) Depression
Major depression is perhaps the most common manifestation of the condition, which involves a persistent feeling of sadness or lack of interest in usual activities. Both exposure to stressful life events and genetic factors are associated with the onset of a major depressive disorder. Symptoms are debilitating, affecting almost every aspect of a person’s social and professional life.
Melancholia
Melancholia is a severe subtype of major depression, where a person is unable to find pleasure in positive things, with little or no improvements to mood in response to positive events.
Dysthymic Disorder (Persistent Depressive Disorder)
Much like major depression, dysthymic disorder presents similar symptoms but on a persistent basis. Those diagnosed with this type of depression endure milder symptoms for a prolonged period of time.
Perinatal Depression
Perinatal or postpartum depression, is a common condition affecting mothers during pregnancy or after the birth of a baby. Sufferers can feel overwhelmed or unable to cope with their new role as a parent. This type of depression can have a severe impact on the mother-child relationship, rouse intense feelings of sadness and guilt.
Psychotic Depression
Those who suffer with major psychotic depression often lose touch with reality, and episodes of psychosis can involve severe hallucinations, delusions and paranoia. Psychotic depression often occurs in conjunction with bipolar disorder or major depressive disorder.
Causes of Depression
A depressive disorder can manifest itself in a number of ways, which is why it’s important for mental health professionals to develop targeted treatments for certain types of depression. A greater understanding of depression and its different forms is a great first step towards getting help. Some common diagnoses include:
Genetics and Biochemical Factors
- Family history
- Brain chemistry (serotonin, noradrenaline and dopamine)
- Low self-esteem
- Self-criticism or perfectionism
- Low self-worth
- Body dysmorphia
- Eating disorders
- Sensitivity to criticism
Bullying and Discrimination
- Peer rejection
- Cyberbullying
- Physical and verbal abuse
- Racism and bigotry
- Physical health problems
- Hormonal imbalance
- Chronic health conditions
- Injury and immobilisation
- Terminal illness
Life Events and Trauma
- Job loss
- Retirement
- Moving house
- Physical and verbal abuse
- Natural disaster
- Sexual assault
- Life threatening experiences
- Witnessing death or injury
- Unstable living conditions
- Grief and loss
- Death of a loved one
- The end of a friendship/relationship
- Moving away
- Loneliness and isolation
- Lack of close family ties
- Separation
- Living alone
- Introversion
- Language or cultural barriers
- Geographic isolation
- Retirement
- Starting a new job or moving schools
- Fear of rejection
Drug Use
- Substance abuse
- Medication side effects
Family or Relationship Breakdown
- Family suffering from mental illness
- Separation and divorce
- Friendship conflict
- Parental conflict
- Loss of intimacy
Signs and Symptoms
Depression presents itself in a myriad of ways. Experiences of the condition — whether subtle or severe — will depend on the individual. The diagnosis of depression can bear different meanings and consequences for sufferers, which is why a ‘one size fits all’ model should be rejected. Nonetheless, here are some common physical, behavioural and psychological indicators of depression:
Physical Symptoms
- Insomnia or excessive sleeping
- Headaches and nausea
- Fatigue, low energy
- Appetite and/or weight changes
- Feeling sick or run down
- Loss of libido
Behavioural Symptoms
- Social withdrawal or isolation
- Substance dependence or abuse
- Difficulties with work (employment/school)
- Participating less in usual activities
- Concentration difficulties
- Lack of motivation
- Frequent crying
Psychological Symptoms
- Anger, irritability
- Pessimism or hopelessness
- Misery or sadness
- Guilt
- Mental exhaustion
- Lack of pleasure
- Anxiety
- Detachment or apathy
- Suicidal thoughts
Treatment for Depression
Depression does not discriminate. With understanding and the right treatment, we can help you lead a happy, fulfilling life.
Day Programs
CBT for Mood and Anxiety Disorders
This eight week program provides a structured application of proven Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) processes. If you want greater control over your depression, anxiety or bipolar disorder, you can learn cognitive restructuring activities to help manage your disorder and reduce the severity and duration of each episode.
Project Art
If you enjoy creative expression and want to improve your confidence using a variety of art materials, this program may benefit you. It is also useful if you are unsure of your creative abilities, but interested in trying structured art projects to experience creative self-expression for personal development, and to experience emotional and psychological issues.
R.E.A.C.H. Support Group
This eight week program is for people living with depression or bipolar disorder. It is based on the principles of Responsibility, Education, Acceptance, Connection and Hope. The program, designed by the Black Dog Institute, aims to help you manage your illness and stay well.
Resources for Depression
Useful resources for people struggling with depression.
Beyondblue
An independent, not-for-profit organisation working to increase awareness and understanding of anxiety and depression in Australia and to reduce the associated stigma.
Black Dog Institute
Information on symptoms, treatment and prevention of depression and bipolar disorder.
Headspace
National youth mental health foundation dedicated to improving the wellbeing of young Australians.
Head to Health
Australian Government online mental health resources.
Lifeline
A national charity providing all Australians experiencing a personal crisis with access to 24 hour crisis support and suicide prevention services.
Mensline Australia
A telephone and online support, information and referral service, helping men to deal with relationship problems in a practical and effective way.
Mindspot Clinic
An online and telephone clinic providing free assessment and treatment services for Australian adults with anxiety or depression.
National Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation (NACCHO)
Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Services and Aboriginal Medical Services in each state and territory.
QLife
National counselling and referral service for LGBTI people, providing early intervention, peer support for people of all ages experiencing poor mental health, psychological distress, social isolation, discrimination, experiences of being misgendered.
Relationships Australia
Relationship support services for individuals, families and communities.
SANE Australia
Information about mental illness, treatments, where to go for support and help carers.
Support After Suicide
Information, resources, counselling and group support to those bereaved by suicide.