Depression

There isn’t a set way to treat depression – what works for one person may not for another, but there are many ways it can be managed. You don’t have to struggle alone. If your symptoms feel like they are impacting on your ability to manage or they are not going away seek support from a professional such as your GP, or call Lifeline on 13 11 14. 

Finding a treatment that works for you can help to reduce and even eliminate the symptoms of depression. Treatment may include a combination of psychological therapy, medication, and community support. It can be hard reaching out for help but there are a variety of services and supports available. Some suggestions are detailed below. Talk to your doctor about how you’ve been feeling to find the most appropriate treatment for you.  Your doctor will also check your physical health for things that may affect how you are feeling. Your doctor can also refer you to a psychologist or other mental health professional for treatment.  If you have a Medicare card, your doctor can work with you to create a mental health plan which will entitle you to Medicare rebates for up to 10 individual and 10 group appointments with some allied mental health services in a year.  

1. Reach out and connect to someone you trust — talking to family, friends, a counsellor, religious minister, or a crisis line can help you develop an understanding of your situation and help you move forward. It is important you don’t isolate yourself.
2. Individual therapy with trained psychologists, psychiatrists, or other health professionals such as counsellors or social workers, can provide a safe space to talk about some of your symptoms and discuss alternative ways of thinking about and managing them. There are a number of evidence-based treatments that can make a difference.
3. Lifestyle and complementary therapies — there are a number of changes that individuals can make in their lives that can make a difference, especially when the symptoms are mild. These may include exercise, planning pleasant events, or enjoying the outdoors.
4. Look after yourself — eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep. Take time out to relax and do things you used to enjoy, even if you don’t feel like it now as it’s important not to isolate yourself 

Some people may experience thoughts of suicide when they are feeling depressed. It is critical that if you, or someone you know, is feeling this way that you seek immediate help.  

It can be very difficult to know what to do and how to cope, but help is available. Below are some places to go for information and support. If life is in danger, please call 000.  

• My Compass – Online self-help program for people experiencing mild to moderate symptoms of depression 
• SANE Australia – 1800 18 7236 
• Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636 
• Headspace – 1800 650 890 
• The Black Dog Institute – Depression self-test questionnaire The Black Dog Institute have a depression self-test questionnaire 
• Contact your GP to arrange an appointment to create a mental health plan with a psychologist. There can be Medicare rebates available for these plans  - Medicare

 

For Crisis Support contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 (24/7) or via text (12pm-midnight AEST) on 0477 13 11 14