Depression is a common and serious mood disorder that can affect the way a person thinks, feels, and behaves. It is characterised by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in in activities that were once enjoyable.
Depression can cause a range of symptoms, including:
- Persistent sadness or feelings of emptiness
- Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyable
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Changes in sleep patterns, including insomnia or excessive sleeping
- Fatigue or loss of energy
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide
Depression can be caused by a range of factors, including genetics, life experiences, brain chemistry, and medical conditions. it may also co-occur with other mental health conditions, such as anxiety or substance abuse.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), in 2017-18, an estimated 1.45 million Australians (or 6% of the population) aged 18 yeas and over had experienced symptoms of depression in the pervious 12 months. Additionally, 13% of Australians aged 4-17 years (or around 460,000 children and adolescents) had experienced a major depressive disorder at some point in their lives.
The ABS also reports that women were more likely to experience symptoms of depression than men. In 2017-18, around 1 in 8 women (12%) had experienced symptoms of depression in the pervious 12 months, compared to around 1 in 16 men (6%).
Effective treatment for depression often includes a combination of therapy and medication, tailored to the specific needs of the individual. Therapy can help people learn coping strategies and address underlying issues contributing to their depression, while medication can help alleviate symptoms of depression. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, healthy eating, and stress reduction techniques can help reduce symptoms of depression.
It is important to seek professional help if you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of depression. with the right treatment and support, it is possible to manage and overcome depression.