Depression is often a reaction to a real life event that has left you feeling stuck, powerless or helpless. Depression can also be a secondary condition to an anxiety disorder that to date, has not be treated successfully.

Understanding your depression and getting the right treatment and support, all contribute toward a positive outcome.

Counselling can be an integral part of that process. Counselling provides a safe space where you can be yourself, express your thoughts and feelings and learn strategies that make day-to-day living easier.

Common causes of depression:

Feeling like you don't fit in with your peers Family conflict Divorce or separation Giving birth (post natal depression) Unemployment Retirement Ongoing bullying Physical illness or injury Having a mental illness or disorder Bereavement Domestic violence

Financial problems Being a victim of a crime Living alone, social isolation A series of stressful events

 

 

 

 

 

Three factors that can pre-dispose a person to depression:

Personality style - People who are anxious, shy, have low self esteem and are perfectionist, are at risk of depression.  Genetics - A history of depression in the family.  Biochemical - A disturbance in the way mood regulators function within the brain.

Symptoms of depression can include:                         Self help for depression:

Loss of confidence and self worth Feelings of helplessness Thoughts of hopelessness about your future Loss of appetite or binge eating Loss of interest in things you previously enjoyed Lack of motivation Fatigue Tearfulness Lack of interest in sex Poor concentration and/or memory Excessive guilt Overly critical self talk Sleeping to avoid facing the day Disturbed sleep patterns Difficulty carrying out usual tasks Agitation, irritability Withdrawing from family and friends Excessive alcohol consumption, taking drugs Abusing prescribed or over-the-counter medications

Eat well Be active - Go for walks, enrol in an exercise class, get out in nature Express your creativity Relax and de-stress - Learn tai chi, yoga or meditation Record your thoughts and feelings in a daily journal Join a support group Talk to a friend Volunteer for a community group Read inspiring self help books Choose to watch or listen to uplifting music and movies Spend quality time with a pet Avoid spending too much time alone Treat yourself - buy flowers or a small gift Change your environment - move the furniture, go away for the weekend Avoid watching the news

If you need urgent help or feel you could harm yourself or others, phone Lifeline Australia on 131114.

Medication

Many people resist or dislike taking medication for depression. You may feel you would like to be able to manage your depression without having to rely on a drug. You might see having to take a drug as some kind of failure on your part. You may also be concerned about either a physical and psychological dependence on medication.

If your doctor recommends medication it may be helpful to think of it as just another useful 'weapon' in your armoury to combat depression. Antidepressants can lift your mood and clear your thinking so that another weapon, therapy, can have a higher degree of success. It can also help to think of medication as something you may not need to take long-term. Any concerns you have about medication or possible side effects should be discussed with your doctor.