Depression Treatment and Assessment
What Is Depression?
Depression is a common and serious mental health condition that affects how a person feels, thinks, and functions in daily life. It involves persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable. It can also affect sleep, appetite, energy levels, concentration, and self-worth.​ In Australia, depression affects approximately 1 in 7 people at some point in their lives, and it's one of the leading causes of disability. Among children and adolescents, depression is a growing concern, with 1 in 20 young Australians aged 4–17 experiencing a depressive disorder each year.
What Causes Depression?
Depression is a caused by a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors. Research shows it can run in families, with genetics and brain chemistry playing a role. Psychological traits like low self-esteem, perfectionism, and a tendency to dwell on negative thoughts increase risk. Life experiences such as trauma, abuse, chronic stress, or major changes—like job loss or relationship breakdown—also contribute. Depression is a complex condition, and understanding these factors is crucial for prevention and treatment.
How Effective Treatment Helps Depression
Effective treatment for depression helps by reducing emotional distress, improving thinking patterns, and restoring a sense of hope and motivation. Research shows approaches like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based talking therapies support people to understand their thoughts, manage overwhelming emotions, and develop healthier coping strategies.
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Treatment for depression also helps people reconnect with everyday activities, relationships, and their sense of self—building confidence and resilience over time. For children and young people, early support can be especially powerful in preventing long-term challenges and promoting healthy emotional development.
Free Anxiety and Depression Test (K10)
Whatever you're facing, you're not alone—we're here to support you. The K10 check-in can help you understand what kind of support might be right for you, and we're here to help you take the next step.
What is the anxiety and depression (K10) test?
This short, 10-question check-in asks how you've been feeling over the past four weeks and helps measure how you may be affected by anxiety or depression. It's based on the K10, an evidence-based assessment widely used by GPs and mental health professionals. Your responses and results are completely anonymous, and we do not store any personal information.
Depression Signs and Symptoms
Depression impacts a person's feelings, thoughts, and behaviour. While it can seem different for everyone, the usual indications and symptoms are:
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Persistent depression or poor mood
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Loss of interest or delight in activities they used to like.
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Fatigue or poor energy, even after rest
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Changes in sleep patterns: sleeping too much or too little
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Changes in appetite: eating more or less than normal
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Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, and hopelessness
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Difficulty focusing, remembering, or making decisions
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Irritability or restlessness, particularly in children and adolescents.
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Physical complaints such as headaches or stomach problems without a clear cause
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Withdrawal from friends, family, and activities
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Suicidal ideation (requires quick support)
In children and teenagers, depression might manifest as irritation, frequent complaints of illness, or behavioural changes rather than sadness.
When to Seek Help for Depression
It’s normal to feel sad, withdrawn, or depressed sometimes. However, if symptoms persist for more than two weeks and interfere with daily activities, seek professional help. Therapy and counselling can make a real difference — helping individuals to understand their emotions, build coping skills, and thrive again.
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Don’t wait for things to get worse. Reach out today —we’re here to help.
Make an Appointment:
Fill out the form below to request an appointment or call us on 0413 921 212
