Depression

Depression is a common mental health condition that goes beyond typical feelings of sadness. It can affect anyone, regardless of age or background, and significantly impacts daily life. In Australia, about 6% of people experience depression each year, and up to 15% may experience it at some point in their lives. Women are twice as likely as men to be diagnosed with depression. The good news is that depression is treatable, and seeking help from a mental health professional is the first step towards feeling better.

Depression vs Sadness

Depression is more than just feeling sad. It involves persistent feelings of sadness and a loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed. While everyone feels sad or upset sometimes, especially after major life events, these feelings usually pass. Depression, however, lasts longer and affects daily life, including how you sleep, eat, work, and interact with others. If these feelings last for more than two weeks, it might be time to seek help.

What Causes Depression? 

Depression can happen to anyone, but certain factors can increase the risk:

• Genetics: A family history of depression increases your chances of developing it.
• Physical Health: Conditions like diabetes, cancer, or heart disease can contribute to depression. Head injuries can also increase the risk.
• Environment: Continuous exposure to violence, neglect, abuse, or poverty can lead to depression.
• Substance Abuse: Using drugs and alcohol can increase the risk of depression.

Interestingly, some researchers think that traits associated with depression, like heightened vigilance and introspection, might have been helpful for our ancestors in coping with difficult situations and avoiding risks.

What are the Symptoms of Depression?

Symptoms of depression can be persistent and vary in intensity. They often include:

• Feelings of sadness or hopelessness
• Loss of interest in most everyday activities
• Feelings of worthlessness or self-loathing
• Irritability or angry outbursts
• Changes in appetite
• Changes in sleep habits, including insomnia or sleeping too much
• Low energy or fatigue
• Slowed movements or speech
• Difficulty focusing or concentrating
• Persistent thoughts of death or suicidal thoughts

If you notice these symptoms in yourself or a loved one, it’s important to seek help from a mental health professional.

Types of Depression

There are different types of depression, each with unique features:

1. Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): Persistent depressed mood and loss of interest in activities for at least two weeks, affecting daily life.
2. Atypical Depression: Temporary improvement in mood in response to positive events, with symptoms like increased appetite and sleepiness.
3. Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia): Chronic low-level depressive symptoms lasting at least two years.
4. Perinatal/Postpartum Depression: Depression occurring during or after pregnancy.
5. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Depressive episodes that follow seasonal patterns, typically worsening in winter.
6. Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder (DMDD): Chronic irritability and anger in children and adolescents, with frequent outbursts.
7. Psychotic Depression: Severe depression accompanied by psychosis, such as hallucinations or delusions.

Other conditions causing depressive symptoms include:

• Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): Severe mood swings and depressive symptoms before menstruation.
• Bipolar Disorder: Mood disorder involving swings between depressive and manic episodes.

How Wellvue Treats Depression 

At Wellvue, we understand how disruptive and all-consuming depression can be. Our team of experienced psychiatrists and clinical psychologists is here to help you regain control and improve your quality of life. We offer a comprehensive, personalised approach to treating depression that includes:

1. Clinical Diagnosis: The first step in treating depression is getting a clinical diagnosis from a qualified mental healthcare professional. Our specialists will conduct a thorough assessment to understand your symptoms and needs.
2. Personalised Treatment Plan: Based on your diagnosis, we will create a tailored treatment plan that may include medication, clinical psychology, or a combination of both.

• Medication: Antidepressants, such as SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs, and MAOIs, help regulate mood by affecting neurotransmitters in the brain. Your doctor will work with you to find the right medication and dosage.
• Clinical Psychology: Psychological treatments are widely preferred and have shown to be effective. These treatments include:
  • Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps you change negative thought patterns and behaviours.
  • Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): Focuses on improving personal relationships and communication skills.
  • Problem-Solving Therapy: Teaches practical skills to cope with stressful life events.

In Australia, evidence-based psychological treatments are often recommended as first-line treatments, with many patients preferring these over medication.

3. Continuous Support: Our team provides ongoing support to track your progress and make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. Regular follow-ups ensure that you are on the right path to recovery.

How to Get Started

If you think you might have depression, Wellvue can help. Here’s how to get started:

1. Book an Appointment: Schedule an initial consultation with one of our mental health professionals.
2. Complete Your First Visit: During your first visit, you’ll share your experiences and symptoms. Our specialist will assess your condition and discuss the best treatment options for you.
3. Receive Your Personalised Treatment Plan: Based on your assessment, you’ll receive a tailored treatment plan that may include medication, therapy, or a combination of both.
4. Ongoing Care: We’ll provide continuous care and support, adjusting your treatment plan as needed to ensure the best outcomes.

Disclaimer:

The information in this article is for educational purposes only and should never be substituted for medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment. If you or someone you know may be in danger, call 000 right away.