How to Tell If You’re Experiencing Depression

It’s normal to feel down sometimes. But if that low mood sticks around or starts affecting your day-to-day life, it might be more than just a rough patch. In Australia, depression is one of the most common mental health conditions. Recognising the signs early can help you get the support you need to feel better.

What Does Depression Really Feel Like?

Depression doesn’t always look like sadness. It can feel like:

• Losing interest in things you used to enjoy

• Feeling flat, numb or disconnected

• Always tired, even with lots of sleep

• Struggling to concentrate or remember things

• Changes in your appetite or sleep

• Feeling hopeless or stuck

Everyone experiences depression differently, but these are common signs.

Signs and Symptoms of Depression

According to Beyond Blue and the Australian Department of Health, symptoms may include:

• Ongoing low mood or irritability

• Withdrawing from people or activities

• Feeling worthless or guilty

• Headaches, stomach pain, or other physical symptoms

• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

  
  

If these symptoms last more than two weeks, it’s a sign to seek help.

What Causes Depression?

There’s usually more than one reason. The triggers for depression are unique to each individual and it's my aim to understand what the triggers for your low mood are so we can explore them, and create a recovery plan unique to your situation. Some causes can be:

• A stressful event (like losing a job or a breakup)

• Family history of mental health conditions

• Long-term physical illness

• Drug or alcohol use

• Feeling isolated or unsupported

• Past trauma

  
  

When Should I Seek Help?

If your mood is getting in the way of daily life - or you just don’t feel like yourself - reaching out is a good idea. You don’t need to “have it all together” before seeing a therapist. Help is here when you’re ready.

How Can I Get Help for Depression?

Here are some simple ways to get support:

• Talk to your GP – They can write a Mental Health Care Plan for Medicare-subsidised therapy sessions.

• Work with a therapist – A counsellor or psychologist can guide you through the healing process. I’m ready to assist if you feel I’m the right fit.

• Try natural or holistic therapy – non-medication treatment, including counselling, coaching and hypnotherapy is the way I like to work

• Call Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 for 24/7 support.

  
  

What Happens in Therapy?

I use natural, medication free, holisitc therapy to explore the root causes, not just the symptoms, but of your problems. Visit the Depression therapy page to learn about my unique and effective Depression Recovery and Support Program, but in general, during our sessions you will learn to:

• Understand your thoughts and feelings

• Handle stress and anxiety

• Build better habits and routines

• Improve your self-worth

• Create a life you don’t want to escape from

Worried About Someone Else?

If someone you care about seems different or low:

• Gently ask how they’re feeling

• Say what you’ve noticed (e.g. “You don’t seem yourself lately”)

• Offer to help them find a therapist or book an appointment

• Avoid judgement - just listen

  
  

You’re Not Alone

Depression is common, treatable, and nothing to be ashamed of.

Whether your symptoms are mild or intense, getting help is a sign of strength—not weakness. I offer counselling for depression, anxiety, addiction and more in Newcastle, NSW, and online across Australia. Let’s create a pathway toward healing together.

Book a confidential 15 minute consult