Brett Somers
Depression will inevitability affect you or someone close to you. In Australia, 1 in 5 women and 1 in 8 men will suffer depression at some stage of their lives. At any given time, 1,000,000 Australian adults will be experiencing depression. Symptoms will vary and severity can be minor to very disabling. It is thought that the prevalence of this condition may be higher, as people can be hesitant to seek help, especially males. Raising awareness of depression and identifying the warning signs (for yourself and others close to you) is important to address symptoms as early as possible.
While people will experience depression in different ways, there are some common symptoms. If you are experiencing the following symptoms for more than two weeks, it is important to seek support:
• Depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure in daily activities
• Noticeable change in baseline mood
• Impaired functioning in social or occupational settings
• Irritability and agitation
• Significant change in weight or appetite
• Experience of insomnia or hypersomnia
• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness
• Poor concentration or diminished ability to think clearly
• Indecisiveness
• Suicidality: thoughts of death or suicide
If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of depression, early intervention is best. It is recommended you talk to your GP in the first instance. You are also able to contact Lifeline 13 11 14, or contact us to make an appointment. Cause Effect Psychology has both male and female psychologists who are experienced in treating depression.