Depression

There’s probably been many times when you’ve felt tired, irritable, angry and/or just plain lousy. This might have been because you had a bad day or because there was something stressful going on, but for some people these feelings last for long periods because they may have depression.  

Depression is a condition that affects more than one million Australians each year.  Depression affects how someone thinks, feels and behaves, and it is not something they can simply “get over”. Symptoms vary from person to person, but might include poor motivation, lowered mood, negative thinking, excessive worry, sleep difficulties and changes in appetite. These symptoms can also affect how some people manage their personal relationships. If you think that you might be experiencing depression, try the beyondblue Interactive Depression Checklist.

Talking about depression

Another issue with depression is that people don’t often talk about it. But it is important to realize that depression is an illness just like diabetes or cancer - the difference is that you can’t see it.

Why don’t men talk about their mental health?

Perhaps this is because men feel embarrassed to talk about how they are feeling, or maybe, as is often the case for many men when it comes to health, they prefer not to talk about it at all. It is important, however, to ensure people understand that being depressed is not a failure to manage or cope, but an illness that can be treated and managed. Talking about what is going on can be the first step in finding the help you need.

Getting help

Whilst the right treatment is different for everyone, talking to your doctor about how you are feeling is a good place to start.  GPs have an understanding of mental health issues and can work to find the best treatment for you. This might be counselling or medication, or maybe even both.

If you know someone who might be experiencing depression you may be able to help them. Talking to them or providing information about depression can help them to further understand the signs and symptoms , available treatments and how to keep well.  

The beyondblue info line - 1300 22 4636 - provides information and referrals to services for depression, anxiety and related disorders. You can call the info line for the cost of a local call or send an inquiry via email infoline@beyondblue.org.au.

The beyondblue website – www.beyondblue.org.au - is a good starting point for advice on where to get help and to access information about depression, anxiety and related disorders.

Depression may be experienced by 1 in 5 Australians, but with the right help, most people recover.  

A specialist talks about depression

Doctor Grant Blashki, a GP and mental health researcher talks about ways to manage depression.

What is depression?

Managing depression

Helping others with depression

Want to know more?

To help you find out more about the causes, prevention, detection and management of depression, anxiety and related disorders we have put together some relevant  depression links and resources.

This article is based on information sourced from beyondblue: the national depression initiative.