We all feel sad, moody or low sometimes, it’s a normal part of life. If these feelings come and stay for more than 2 weeks it might be a sign that you have depression.
Depression affects 1 in 7 people in Australia. It's a serious condition that affects your physical and mental health.
It’s important to know that it is treatable and it’s worth reaching out and talking to someone about it.
Depression affects how you feel about yourself. It can make life more difficult to manage from day to day.
You might lose interest in things you usually enjoy. You may lack energy, have trouble sleeping or sleep more than usual.
Some people feel irritable and some find it hard to concentrate.
Everyone experiences depression differently.
Common signs and symptoms of depression can include:
withdrawing from friends and family
trouble concentrating
feeling overwhelmed, empty or numb
thinking nothing good ever happens
being constantly tired
There are several types of depression. Each type has different symptoms and is treated differently.
Common types of depression include major depression (including postnatal depression), bipolar disorder and persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia).
Learn more: Types of depression
There are many different approaches to treating depression. These include medications, therapy (such as cognitive behaviour therapy) and lifestyle changes.
We’ve got resources to help you if you’re feeling miserable, have been diagnosed with depression or are supporting someone with depression.
Depression is unlikely to go away on its own.
Finding the right treatment and support can help you learn how to manage your depression and start to feel better.
Learn more: Treatments for depression
Your GP can be a good place to start the conversation about your mental health.
We can also help you find other support that’s right for you. This could include talking to our counsellors or helping you find a mental health professional near you.
If you’re recovering from or managing poor mental health, work can help you to get better and stay well. There are things you and your employer can do to help.
If you’re worried about someone close to you, it can be hard to know what to say or do.
We have information and resources to help you support someone with a mental health condition:
As an organisation that supports people from across Australia, Beyond Blue acknowledges the Traditional Owners and Custodians of Country and their continuing connection to land, waters and community. We pay respect to Elders past and present.
First Nations Peoples are advised that this website may include reference to and images of deceased persons.
Beyond Blue is committed to safe inclusive spaces, policies and services for people of LGBTIQ+ communities and their families.
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Sometimes people who are experiencing depression may also experience suicidal thoughts. To learn more visit Suicide prevention.
