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Sometimes we have a tough day and that's okay. But if you've been feeling down for a long time, it could be a sign that it's time to seek help.
What is depression?
Depression is a state of mind that can be caused by, for example, sadness or low mood. It is a normal reaction to different life situations, losses or difficulties.
It can be a short-term, transient feeling, often linked to specific events such as a crisis, failure or personal loss, but it can also be part of depression, a more severe condition. Depression often requires longer-term treatment.
At Lavendla, you can get help for both low mood and depression. Read more in the article below.
What set our therapist apart was her genuine empathy and personal insight. Not only did she possess a deep understanding of neurodiversity, but she also shared personal experiences that resonated with us, creating an instant connection and fostering a sense of trust!
Benedetta Osarenk
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Why do you get depressed?
Sadness is a normal part of the human emotional experience and can be a way of reacting to difficult events or situations. If you are involved in a shocking event, you may initially experience stress with feelings of unreality, sleep problems and anxiety. This can lead to depression after some time.
Lifestyle factors, such as being too sedentary, loneliness or financial worries, can also cause depression. It is important to distinguish between depression and clinical depression, where depression is often more long-lasting, deep and affects a person’s ability to function in everyday life. If you feel less joy in life and more depression, it may be wise to seek professional help for support and advice.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics estimated that 2.1 million Australians, or 9.3 per cent of our population, were suffering from some form of depression. On average, around 1 in 6 Australian people – 1 in 5 women and 1 in 8 men – will experience MDD at some point in their lives.
Symptoms of depression
There are various signs of depression and we have listed some of them here:
- Sense of sadness or grief: A general feeling of sadness or loss.
- Reduced energy: Feeling tired and lacking motivation.
- Decreased interest: Loss of interest in usual activities or reduced ability to experience pleasure.
- Difficulty focusing: Decreased ability to concentrate or difficulty keeping thoughts clear.
- Sleep problems: Changes in sleep patterns, such as lack of sleep or increased sleepiness.
- Increased irritability: Reduced resilience and increased sensitivity to stress.
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Fatigue and depression
Do you often feel tired and have difficulty feeling happy? Has the workload become too much? Maybe you are withdrawing socially? If so, it is important not to ignore these signs either, as they can be indications of low mood or an underlying depression. Fatigue can also be a sign of stress issues and exhaustion. At Lavendla, we can do a basic assessment to see how we can best help you based on your situation. We make the hard things easier.
Depression and sadness
Sadness is also a symptom of depression so it is important to seek help if you feel symptoms so that you can get the right help. Depression is a common illness, with around 9.3% of the Australian population (aged 16-84) having reported feeling depressed in the last two weeks, according to research. There is nothing to be ashamed of if you feel down and have developed depression, there is treatment with good effect and we at Lavendla are happy to help you.
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Effective therapies
There are various treatment options for dealing with depression. Psychotherapy is a common treatment and sometimes medication is also needed. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) has proven to be an effective treatment method, especially when combined with medication such as antidepressants. By talking to a professional therapist or psychologist, you can identify the underlying causes of your depression and work on concrete strategies to improve your well-being.
We make the hard things easier
We all experience losses, crises or other difficulties in our lives. Talking about mental health can be difficult, but seeking help is an important step in improving your quality of life. The benefits include improved health, better work ability and improved relationships. It takes strength to seek help and therapy is a proven method for dealing with various problems. By seeking professional help, you can make the difficult a little easier. At Lavendla, we have therapists and psychologists who can help you.
If you or someone you know has thoughts of self-harm, call emergency services on 000 or call Lifeline Australia on 13 11 14 (24 hour service).
12 frequently asked questions about depression
What is depression?
Sadness can be a normal reaction to different life situations, such as stress, loss, relationship difficulties or change. Most people experience periods of depression at some stage in their lives.
What are the most common symptoms of depression?
The most common symptoms include persistent sadness, lack of energy, sleep problems, fatigue and irritability.
How is depression diagnosed?
Diagnosis of depression is usually done through interviews and questionnaires that assess how depression relates to other conditions such as depression, anxiety and stress. Sometimes blood tests may also be taken to rule out other medical causes.
What causes depression?
Sadness can be caused by a variety of things such as crises, losses or lifestyle factors. It can vary from person to person.
How is depression treated?
Treatment options vary but often include therapy and lifestyle changes. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a common form of psychological treatment.
How long is the treatment for depression?
The length of treatment can vary depending on the severity and individual needs. Some people can experience relief within a few weeks, while others need longer treatment.
Is depression hereditary?
Genetics can play a role in depression, but it is usually a combination of several factors such as life events and personal circumstances that contribute to depression.
Can exercise help with depression?
Yes, regular physical activity has been shown to improve mood and mental health. However, it should not replace professional care when needed.
What are the risk factors for depression?
The way you relate to and deal with both crises and life contributes to the development of depression. This can include whether you talk about your problems, what social support you have and how you live your daily life.
Is depression more common in men or women?
Women can talk more about their depression, but men are less likely to seek help. In this way, it can be different although it can take different forms as well.
How does depression affect relationships?
Depression can make it difficult to maintain healthy relationships and can lead to social withdrawal.
Can Lavendla help me?
Yes, if you are experiencing symptoms of depression, it is important to seek professional help. Our psychologists and therapists are available for online or face-to-face consultations and can help you make the difficult easier.
Tips for dealing with depression
Seeking help for depression is a big step towards better health. It is a positive thing to decide to take control of how you feel. Here is an overview of the steps usually involved in therapy.
Step 1: An initial assessment session
The first meeting with your psychologist or therapist is usually an assessment to review your mental and physical health. You may be asked questions about your life situation, feelings, thoughts and behaviours. You may also be asked to complete assessment forms.
Step 2: Goal setting
This is where you and your therapist set concrete goals for the therapy, both short and long term.
It can define which areas of your life are most affected by your depression and how you would like to change them.
Step 3: Treatment for depression
This is the actual treatment phase, which may include treatment such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Talk therapy, exercises, and homework assignments aim to give you tools to overcome your depression.
Step 4: Monitoring and evaluation
Treatment is monitored regularly to see how well the therapy is working. If necessary, the treatment plan can be adjusted or renewed.
Step 5: Ending and looking ahead
As the therapy comes to an end, it is time to reflect on the progress made. You will also receive a plan on how to use the tools and strategies you have learned in the future.
If you or someone close to you is seeking professional help for depression, don’t hesitate to book a session with one of our qualified psychologists or therapists.
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