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How to know if you have depression: signs and symptoms

It's natural for everyone to feel down from time to time, but when a low mood persists, it's crucial to seek support.

According to Beyond Blue, about one in seven people in Australia will experience depression in their lifetime. Recognising the signs and symptoms of depression and knowing where to find support are the first steps toward recovery.

This guide provides information on identifying depression, understanding its symptoms, and determining when to seek help.

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What is depression?

According to Health Direct, depression is a mental health condition that impacts your emotions, thoughts, and behaviours. Common symptoms include feeling low and losing interest in activities you once enjoyed.

Depression can also affect your physical health, leading to changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, or persistent tiredness.

It's more than just feeling sad or down. Lifeline explains that depression involves a prolonged low mood that can significantly impact daily life, making it difficult to work, manage responsibilities, or connect with others.

Types of depression

Depression can take several forms, as explained by Beyond Blue, including:

  • Major depression (major depressive disorder): Long-lasting symptoms that interfere with daily life.
  • Melancholic depression: A subtype of major depression that involves both physical and emotional symptoms.
  • Psychotic depression: Includes hallucinations, delusions, or paranoia alongside depression.
  • Perinatal and postnatal depression: Many women experience depression during pregnancy or after childbirth.
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How to know if you have depression

Depression is diagnosed by a mental health professional. They will ask about your symptoms and how they affect your daily life. 

Keeping a journal of your symptoms can be helpful for discussions with your doctor.

Beyond Blue shares that common symptoms of depression include:

  • Hopelessness: Feeling like things won't improve.
  • Loss of interest: Activities that used to be enjoyable may no longer be appealing.
  • Lack of energy: Feeling tired or that everything is too challenging.
  • Sleep problems: Difficulty sleeping at night or sleeping too much.
  • Appetite and weight changes: Loss of appetite and weight or overeating and weight gain.
  • Mood swings: Intense feelings of sadness that persist.
  • Irritability: Frequently feeling angry or frustrated.
  • Feelings of worthlessness: Low self-esteem and thoughts like, 'I can't do anything right'.
  • Guilt: Blaming yourself or feeling like you're letting others down.
  • Difficulty concentrating: Trouble focusing, making decisions, or remembering things.
  • Withdrawal: Avoiding social interactions or isolating yourself.
  • Physical symptoms: Aches, pains, headaches, or digestive problems.
  • Thoughts of death: If you have suicidal thoughts, seek immediate help by calling Lifeline on 13 11 14.

When to see a doctor

If you've been experiencing depressive symptoms that persist for more than two weeks, it’s important to seek help. According to Better Health Channel, depression is treatable, and early intervention can lead to better outcomes.

You should see your doctor if:

  • You feel sad or low most of the time
  • Symptoms persist for more than two weeks
  • You're struggling to cope at home, work, or school
  • You’re using alcohol or drugs to manage your symptoms
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How is depression diagnosed?

Beyond Blue explains that depression is diagnosed using specific criteria – for example the K10 test, by a mental health professional. They will ask about your symptoms, family history, and any other health conditions you may have.

Based on your situation, your doctor will recommend a treatment plan that may include:

  • Lifestyle changes: Improving diet, increasing physical activity, reducing substance use, and better sleep patterns.
  • Psychological therapies: Talking therapies like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and mindfulness.
  • Medication: In some cases, medication is used alongside lifestyle changes and psychological therapies.

Where to get support for depression

Starting with your GP is a good step. They can refer you to a mental health professional who can provide specialised support and tools to help you cope.

Staying connected with family and friends is also important. If you’re not comfortable discussing your symptoms with them, mental health helplines can offer support.

Support groups like the ones offered by Black Dog Institute can help you connect with others who are experiencing similar challenges.

If depression is affecting your ability to find or maintain employment, Disability Employment Services providers such as APM can help.

We specialise in assisting people with a disability, injury, or health condition, including mental health conditions.

Our services include workplace accommodations, access to mental health services, and support in overcoming barriers to employment.

For more information about managing work while living with depression, read our guide to finding a job with depression.

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Resources and further reading

About this article

APM supports people with disability, injury, or a health condition through various programs and services across its businesses, including Disability Employment Services in Australia.

The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.

When discussing disability, APM’s copy style is to use person-first language and the social model of disability in the first instance. Some articles may use identity-first language or refer to the medical model of disability for clarity or to better suit a specific audience.

If you have any questions or feedback about the content of this article, visit our Feedback page to get in touch or email support@apm.net.au