Signs to look out for 

  • Feeling ‘down’ for more than two weeks.
  • Loss of interest or pleasure in activities.
  • Loss of energy.
  • Appetite changes.
  • Changing sleep patterns.
  • Feelings of worthlessness.
  • Thoughts about death.

Depression

The term 'depression' is also used by psychologists, psychiatrists and healthcare professionals to describe a number of feelings that we associate with being in low spirits – things like sadness, loneliness, frustration, despair or disappointment.

Sometimes-no matter what we try- a low mood just won’t go away; it could be a sign that something more is going on.

Most of us will experience a time when we feel down, but for some people, the feelings and thoughts associated with depression can start to occur more regularly. On average, 1 in 6 people – 1 in 5 women and 1 in 8 men – will experience depression at some stage of their lives (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2007).

If you feel that you may be suffering from depression it is important to remember that you do not have to go through this alone. You can make an appointment to see a UTS counsellor or call a professional from the Medical Service on: 9514 1177.

Resources and services 

The following resources and services provide information on depression and can offer assistance in getting help. Please note: all of these links open external sites. 
 
  • Lifeline 13 11 14: a 24-hour telephone counselling line for crisis support and suicide prevention. Lifeline also offers a range of self-help resources and an online crisis support chat service available 7pm – 4am, 7 days a week. 
  • Beyond Blue 1300 224 636: An Australian organisation working to reduce the impact of depression and anxiety in the community by raising awareness and understanding, empowering people to seek help, and supporting recovery, management and resilience.
  • Beyond Blue offers an online chat service and a range of self-help resources on their website. Take their one-minute checklist 
  • Reach Out: Australia’s leading online youth mental health service. 
  • The Mood Gym: a free online training program that offers assistance in learning cognitive behaviour therapy skills for preventing and coping with depression. The program is available in different languages. 
  • The Mindspot Clinic 1800 61 44 34: a free telephone and online service for Australians dealing with stress, worry, anxiety, low mood or depression.

References
Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2008). National Survey of Mental Health and Wellbeing: Summary of Results, 2007. Cat. no. (4326.0). Canberra: ABS.