Depression is more than just a low mood.  Clinical depression is characterised by the following symptoms and persists for at least two weeks:

• Moodiness that is out of character
• Finding it hard to take minor criticisms
• Increased irritability and frustration
• Loss of interest in food, sex, exercise and other pleasurable activities
• Insomnia
• Staying at home from work or school
• Recklessness, increased risk taking, drug and alcohol use
• Slowing of thoughts or activities
• Increased health complaints

 Depression is very common, and affects 1 in 5 Australians at some point in their lifetime.  Depression is most common in:

• Females
• Both young, and elderly people
• Those with a family history of depression
• People with chronic illness such as cancer or cardiovascular disease
• People with substance abuse issues
• People that live in rural or remote areas

However can affect anyone at any point in their life

There are different types of depression.  Clinical depression can be short or long term, while dysthymia is less severe but can last for years.  Psychotic depression can include symptoms of psychosis (hallucinations, paranoia, delusions), and bi-polar disorder includes both very high, and very low feelings.

There are medical and non-medical treatments for depression. 

Medical treatment comes in the form of anti-depressants. Anti-depressants generally help to correct the chemical imbalance in the brain (low serotonin and norepinephrine) that is associated with depression. This can improve the mood of a person with depression, and make it easier to carry out day to day tasks, as well as help them deal with the issues that may be contributing to their depression. Anti-depressant medications can be used short or long term and are non-addictive.  Possible side effects of anti-depression include increased appetite, weight gain and sexual difficulties.

Other forms of treatment include psychological treatment such as cognitive behaviour therapy and family therapy, which have shown to be very effective.

Things that people can do themselves to help ease depression are:

• Exercise – even if its just a daily walk around the block
• Getting enough sleep
• Decreasing stress levels – which can be helped through yoga, breathing exercises, and exercise.
• Decreasing drug and alcohol intake
• Catching up with friends and loved ones
• Making sure to get out of bed everyday

For more information on depression speak to your GP or have a look at the Beyond Blue website at
www.beyondblue.org.au.