Our Psychologists have availability for face-to-face and online appointments for adults, adolescents and children.
Our Psychologists have availability for face-to-face and online appointments for adults, adolescents and children.
Depression is a common mental health condition marked by persistent sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in activities. Treatment for depression can help address these symptoms, which go beyond just feeling down for a day or two. Clinically, depression involves a low mood, changes in sleep and appetite, fatigue, and trouble concentrating, all of which significantly interfere with daily life.
These symptoms can vary in severity and may persist for weeks or months if left untreated. It’s essential to seek professional treatment for Depression if you experience these symptoms consistently.
Persistent sadness or low mood
Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
Changes in appetite or weight (either loss or gain)
Insomnia or excessive sleeping
Fatigue or loss of energy
Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Restlessness or slowed movements
Thoughts of death or suicide
Globally, an estimated 5%
of adults suffer from
depression
Depression affects 1 in 7
people in Australia
More women are affected
by depression than men
About one in five
Australians will experience
depression in their lifetime
Treating depression effectively involves a multi-faceted approach backed by solid research. Antidepressants play a pivotal role by rebalancing brain chemistry, offering much-needed relief from the challenging symptoms that can disrupt daily life. Alongside medications, structured psychotherapies like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) are highly recommended. These therapies act like toolkits, empowering individuals to identify and modify negative thought patterns, while equipping them with practical skills to navigate life’s inevitable challenges more effectively.
For individuals with more resistant forms of depression, somatic treatments such as Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT), repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS), and transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) provide additional options. These interventions target brain function directly, offering promising results particularly for those who haven’t responded well to other treatments.
What’s clear from the research is the importance of personalised care. Each person’s experience with depression is unique, necessitating a tailored approach that considers their specific symptoms, preferences, and circumstances. By combining medications, therapy, and innovative treatments, healthcare providers can optimise outcomes, striving not only to alleviate symptoms but to enhance overall well-being and quality of life.
As research continues to advance, so too does our understanding of depression and its treatment options. This ongoing evolution underscores the importance of staying informed and adaptable in providing the best care possible for those navigating the complexities of depression.
*Source: Major depressive disorder: Validated treatments and future challenges – National Library of Medicine
Research from the SMILES trial suggests that munching on plenty of fruits, veggies, whole grains, and healthy fats like olive oil can really lift your mood.
Our clinical psychologists in St Leonards see adults with depression and low mood, including depression that follows stress, loss, a relationship ending, a health problem or a big life change. We also help with related difficulties such as anxiety, grief, postnatal depression, bipolar disorder, insomnia and low self-esteem.
Treatment is usually Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), which helps you notice and change patterns of thinking and behaviour that keep low mood going, often with behavioural activation – gradually building back activities that give a sense of pleasure and achievement. Some people also benefit from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) or mindfulness-based approaches. Sessions are face-to-face at our rooms in St Leonards, on Sydney’s lower North Shore, or online anywhere in Australia.
For young people, see depression in adolescents and depression in children.
How do I know if it’s depression or just a rough patch?
Everyone feels low sometimes. It’s worth seeing someone when low mood, loss of interest, tiredness, poor sleep or feeling worthless last for two weeks or more, or start to affect work, study or relationships.
Do I need medication?
Many people improve with psychological treatment alone. For moderate to severe depression, a combination of therapy and medication can help. Your GP or psychiatrist can talk with you about medication. Psychologists don’t prescribe, but we can work alongside your doctor.
How many sessions will I need?
It depends on the person. Many people have weekly or fortnightly sessions over a few months.
Do I need a referral?
No. With a GP referral and Mental Health Treatment Plan, you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate.
What if I’m having thoughts of suicide?
Please call 000 in an emergency, or Lifeline on 13 11 14 (24 hours). You can also call the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467.
Call us on 02 9438 2511, email hello@mindboxpsychology.com.au or send us an enquiry. Our reception team will answer your questions.
We’ll match you with a clinical psychologist who works with your concern, face-to-face in St Leonards or through online counselling anywhere in Australia.
Your first session is 60 minutes. You don’t need a referral to book, but with a GP Mental Health Treatment Plan and referral you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate.
Clinical Psychologist, Director of MindBox Psychology
Hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm
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