Depression

Help for Depression from a Psychologist

Depression is persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest and general feelings of apathy, and in some cases feelings of complete helplessness. Symptoms that characterise major depression can lead to a range of behavioural and physical symptoms, and when left untreated can manifest themselves in a number of negative ways. These may include changes in communication, attitude to work and relationships, sleep, appetite, energy level, concentration, or self-esteem. In extreme cases, depression can also be associated with thoughts of suicide. Adults and children can experience depression in varying levels of severity. Depression can cause changes in mood through anxiety, apathy, general discontent, guilt, hopelessness, loss of interest, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, mood swings, or sadness. Changes to normal behaviour can include feeling agitated, crying excessively, being irritable and restless, and social isolation. Interruption to sleep is common by laying awake, excess sleepiness, insomnia, or restless sleep. Depression can also lead to excessive hunger, fatigue, or loss of appetite. It also commonly causes problems with concentrating on certain tasks, slowness in activity, or thoughts of suicide. Weight gain or weight loss is common in persons experiencing bouts of depression. 

Depression is a complex disease, and no one knows exactly what causes it. However, depression can happen for a variety of reasons. Some people have depression during a serious medical illness, or as a result of a major life change such as an accident, relationship breakdown, or loss of employment. Others may have a family history of depression – there are also those who have depression and feel overwhelmed with sadness and loneliness for no obvious reason – see also, treating depression in children.

There’s no one proven way of treating people presenting with depressive symptoms – some people recover from depression, and others suffer ongoing and long-term bouts it’s different for everyone. However, there is a range of proven and effective treatments and our psychologist at On Track Psychology Brisbane can help you on the road to recovery. Importantly, your psychologist will advise on a number of things you can do for yourself to recover and stay well. The important thing is finding the right treatment and the right health professional for your needs – this is where On Track Psychology Brisbane can help. help.

Depression left untreated

If left untreated, depression and anxiety can go on for weeks, months, or even years. However, the positive news is that a range of effective treatments are available, as well as things you can do yourself to recover and stay well such as exercise, meditation, and mindfulness. Different treatments work for different people – speak to your psychologist about your options and preferences – most people find that a combination of approaches to treating depression is most effective. On Track Psychology Brisbane can help with depression, we have a convenient location in Greenslopes Brisbane – contact us today.