What is depression? An in-depth overview

According to Beyond Blue, one in seven Australians, including young people, could experience depression at some point in their lives. If you are living with depression, you are not alone.

Depression, also known as clinical depression, is explained by Health Direct as a mood disorder that affects emotions, thoughts, and behaviour, impacting individuals globally every day. It is a complex condition that can range from mild to severe and could last for varying periods of time.

In severe cases, depression could lead to thoughts of self-harm or suicide.

If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts, help is available. For support, call Lifeline on 13 11 14, or if you are in immediate danger, call 000.

While living with depression varies from person to person, Better Health Channel explains that it is crucial to remember that with education, proper treatment, and effective coping strategies, it is possible to lead a healthy and fulfilling life.

Types of depression

According to Beyond Blue, there are various types of depression, each with unique symptoms, treatments, and coping strategies. Some of these include:

Major depressive disorder

According to Healthline, major depressive disorder is the most common form of depression, characterised by persistent low moods, negative thoughts, and feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and worthlessness.

These feelings could interfere with daily tasks, such as going to work or school, and might lead to changes in appetite, sleep patterns, and concentration.

Physical symptoms like fatigue, headaches, and digestive issues may also be experienced.

Persistent depressive disorder

Persistent depressive disorder, also known as dysthymia, might be present if you have experienced a depressed mood for most of the day, on most days, for over two years.

This type of depression often develops in young people, leading some adults to believe they do not need professional support because they have always felt this way.

Seasonal affective disorder

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is linked to changes in the seasons, usually beginning in autumn and continuing into winter.

While uncommon in Australia, SAD could be associated with changes in light exposure during different seasons, presenting symptoms like a lack of energy, oversleeping, overeating, and craving carbohydrates.

Melancholic depression

Melancholic depression is a subtype of major depressive disorder that involves both physical and emotional symptoms. These could include fatigue, changes in appetite, and sleep patterns, as well as difficulty focusing on tasks.

Some people might also experience difficulty speaking or an inability to complete sentences, and in severe cases, even simple tasks such as brushing their teeth could feel impossible.

Psychotic depression

Psychotic depression is another subtype of major depressive disorder that includes hallucinations, delusions, or paranoia.

When psychotic symptoms are present, the depression could be more severe, requiring adjusted treatment.

Postpartum and perinatal depression

According to the Black Dog Institute, many women experience depression during pregnancy (perinatal depression) and after giving birth (postpartum depression).

Symptoms might include feeling overwhelmed, anxious, irritable, guilty, or disinterested in once enjoyable activities.

It is important to create a support system to manage symptoms and ensure that taking time for yourself could help you feel more connected to your baby.

Associated mental health conditions

According to WebMD, depression could be linked with other mental health conditions, including:

• Anxiety disorders (e.g., panic disorder, phobias, obsessive-compulsive disorder)
• Eating disorders (e.g., anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa)
• Bipolar disorder, characterised by alternating periods of mania and depression
• Post-traumatic stress disorder, triggered by a traumatic event
• Schizophrenia, characterised by hallucinations, delusions, and disorganised thinking
• Disruptive mood dysregulation disorder, which occurs in children and is characterised by severe irritability and bad temper

Support is always available—never hesitate to reach out to one of the many helplines that exist to support your mental health.

Depression risk factors

While the exact cause of depression is unknown, Psych Central explains that several risk factors could increase the likelihood of developing the condition. These include:

Biological factors

• Genetics and family history
• Brain chemistry and chemical imbalances
• Hormonal imbalances

Environmental factors

• Adverse life events such as trauma, loss, and abuse
• Chronic stress
• Substance abuse
• Medical conditions

Psychological factors

• Low self-esteem
• Negative thinking patterns
• Anxiety or obsessive-compulsive disorder

Treatment options if you’re living with depression

According to Better Health, depression is a treatable condition, regardless of its type. It is always recommended to speak with a professional mental healthcare provider before starting any treatment.

Finding the right treatment might be a process, but persisting until you find the best options could be worth it.

Common depression treatment options include:

Medication

Health Direct explains that antidepressant medication is often used to manage symptoms of depression and could be prescribed by your GP.

These medications work by balancing chemicals in the brain that affect your mood, but it is important to remember that they do not cure depression; rather, they help manage its symptoms.

Patience is needed as these medications could take several weeks to take effect, and it’s essential to monitor any side effects and discuss them with your doctor.

Therapy

Better Health Channel explains that therapy provides a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your feelings and develop a better understanding of yourself, with support from a professional psychologist.

Various types of therapy, including cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), could be effective in treating depression by helping you identify negative thought patterns and develop effective coping strategies.

Lifestyle changes

Making lifestyle changes, such as exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet, connecting regularly with friends and family, and getting enough sleep, could help manage your symptoms.

Finding activities you enjoy could boost your mood and make a positive difference in your overall wellbeing.

Coping strategies

Effective coping strategies could help manage your symptoms, including relaxation techniques, keeping a gratitude journal, and creating an achievable routine, according to Very Well Mind. To learn more about how these strategies could work for you, explore our blog on living with depression.

Seek help from a mental healthcare professional

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of depression, it is critical to seek support from a mental health professional.

Remember, depression is not a sign of weakness or something to be ashamed of—it is a serious condition that requires the help and support of a healthcare professional.

If this step feels too overwhelming, there is also a range of free mental health helplines available at any time, with trained professionals ready to listen.

When should I seek help?

If symptoms of depression interfere with daily life, it is recommended to reach out to a mental health professional.

How to seek help

To access professional support, visit your GP and discuss your symptoms.

Your doctor could assess your situation and recommend treatment options right for you, such as referring you to a psychologist, prescribing medication, suggesting personal coping strategies, or a combination of all these approaches.

If you are in crisis, emergency services are available 24/7.

Remember, you are not alone—there are people and services ready to help. Seeking help is the first step toward taking care of your mental health and paving the way to a more fulfilling life.

Resources and further reading

• Understanding depression - Black Dog Institute
• Depression - Health Direct
• Depression - Healthline
• 22 ways to cope with depression - Healthline
• Depression - Better Health Channel
• Depression explained - Better Health Channel
• Short-term strategies for managing feelings of depression - Lifeline support toolkit
• How to deal with depression and sadness - This Way Up
• Self care for depression - Mind
• Where can I get help? - R U OK?

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