What Is Depression?

Depression affects how you feel, think, and act. It can cause mental and physical problems, including depressive disorders and anxiety disorders, as well as impair job performance. 

Depression, also known as persistent depressive disorder, is a mental illness with depressive symptoms that can be hard to spot. Some people may not even realise they have the illness, and patients with depressive disorders are often underdiagnosed.

Here are some common symptoms of depression: 

• I am feeling hopeless or helpless. You might not see any point in trying anymore.

• I am always feeling irritable or angry. You might find yourself snapping at friends and family for no reason.

• Change in sleep patterns. You may either sleep too much or have trouble sleeping.

• Appetite changes. You may lose your appetite entirely or start eating more than usual.

• She was withdrawing from social activities and losing interest in things you used to enjoy.

• You may always feel tired, even if you’re getting enough sleep. Everything feels like too much effort. 

Most Common forms of depression

There are several types of depression, and it is not always easy to identify which type someone, person, people, or patients may have. 

 The most common forms of depression are:

 Major depressive disorder – This is the most severe form of depression, making daily life difficult. Symptoms include hopelessness, worthlessness, emptiness, loss of interest in once-pleasurable activities, insomnia, weariness, and suicidal thoughts.

 Persistent depressive disorder – This milder form of depression might last months or years. Symptoms might include sadness, low self-esteem, low energy, and concentration problems.

 Bipolar disorder – This is a mental health condition that may cause extreme mood changes, from highs (mania) to lows (depression). 

Other forms of depression are: 

 Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) - SAD is a fall/winter depression. Shorter days and less sunlight are thought to promote SAD. Sadness, hopelessness, anxiety, exhaustion, and social disengagement are SAD symptoms.

 Postpartum Depression - Postpartum depression is more severe and longer-lasting than "baby blues." Symptoms include feeling unhappy, sad, or irritated, having difficulties sleeping or eating, and feeling detached from your infant.

 Atypical Depression - Atypical depression is a type of depression that can be difficult to diagnose. This is because the symptoms are not always the same as traditional depression. Symptoms of atypical depression can include: 

-moodiness

- fatigue

- oversleeping

- appetite changes

- anxiety

- irritability

 Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder - Premenstrual dysphoric disorder is a severe variant of PMS (PMS). About 5% of women of reproductive age have PMDD, which causes mood swings, irritability, anxiety, depression, and physical symptoms, including bloating and breast soreness. 

Related Article: What Is A Phobia?

When to seek help

Most people know when they feel blue or down in the dumps, but what about when those feelings persist for weeks or months? 

While it is expected to experience sadness or grief at times if these feelings last for more than two weeks and are interfering with your ability to function in your daily life, it could be depression, and you may need to contact a psychologist or seek help via lifeline (13 11 14) if you're suicidal.

Our psychologists here at ELD Psychology have experience assessing and treating difficulties with depression. 

Meet Your Clinical Psychologists In Newcastle

Dr Emma Doolan is a Clinical Psychologist based in Newcastle. With a collaborative and evidence-based approach, she helps clients overcome various challenges such as anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma. 

Emma is experienced in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and other modalities like schema therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and compassion-focused therapy. She holds a PhD in clinical psychology and has completed her registration as a clinical psychologist from AHPRA. Emma is a member of several professional associations, including ACPA, APS, AACBT, and APN.

Paige Cornell is a clinical psychologist in Newcastle who has experience in therapeutic modalities such as Motivational Interviewing, CBT, Schema Therapy, DBT, and ACT. She focuses on building a solid therapeutic relationship and tailoring treatment to each individual. Paige has experience in private practice, NGOs, and forensic settings. 

She works with a diverse range of mental health issues, including anxiety, mood disorders, PTSD, relationship problems, substance abuse, and offending behaviours. Paige is particularly interested in helping LGBTQI+ individuals and those dealing with trauma and substance abuse. She is fully registered and endorsed as a clinical psychologist and a board-approved supervisor for psychologists. Paige is a member of ACPA and APS, holding a Master's in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor's in Psychological Science (Honours).

Taylah Armstrong is a Clinical Psychologist in Newcastle. She focuses on developing solid therapeutic relationships to assist individuals in enhancing their well-being and achieving their goals. Taylah is skilled in treating various concerns such as anxiety, stress, mood disorders, trauma, and eating disorders. 

She utilises evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, and ACT. Taylah has worked in public healthcare, primary care, and education sectors. She is fully registered and endorsed as a clinical psychologist by AHPRA and holds a Master's and Bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Newcastle.

Paige Whitfield is a clinical psychologist in Newcastle with experience in private and public health settings. She collaborates with health professionals, families, and schools to provide evidence-based treatments like CBT, Narrative Therapy, and ACT for various issues. Paige has a Bachelor's degree in Psychology (Honours) and a Master's in Clinical Psychology. She is fully registered and endorsed as a clinical psychologist and is a member of APS and ACPA.

Dr Kaitlin Fitzgerald is a clinical psychologist in Newcastle who takes a collaborative and client-centred approach to therapy. She creates a warm and relaxed environment for clients, aiming to make therapy sessions comfortable and even enjoyable. Kaitlin holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Clinical Psychology and a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) from the University of Newcastle. In addition to her private practice at ELD Psychology, she also works in public mental health, treating adults with various mental health issues. 

Kaitlin has experience working with a wide range of concerns, such as anxiety, depression, and relationship difficulties. She is skilled in evidence-based therapies like CBT, Schema Therapy, DBT, and ACT. Kaitlin is fully registered as a clinical psychologist with AHPRA and is approved to supervise provisional and registered psychologists.

Eliza Newton is a person-centred Clinical Psychologist dedicated to helping clients explore their deeper selves. She tailors her approach to each client, using psychodynamic therapy for self-exploration or structured techniques like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, and Schema Therapy. Eliza focuses on individuals overcoming childhood trauma, including Complex PTSD, and helps those with ADHD develop organisational and emotional well-being strategies. With experience in private practice, inpatient settings, and psychiatric rehabilitation, she addresses challenges from anxiety and mood disorders to severe mental illness.

Eliza holds a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) from the University of Newcastle and a Master of Clinical Psychology from Western Sydney University. She is registered as a Clinical Psychologist with AHPRA and is a member of AAPi and ACPA.

Disclaimer

The content provided on this blog is intended for Australian audiences and is for informational purposes only. It should not be considered as professional psychological advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information shared here is based on general knowledge and experience in the field of psychology, but it may not be applicable to your specific situation.

Always seek the advice of your psychologist or other qualified mental health provider with any questions you may have regarding a psychological condition or treatment. Never disregard professional psychological advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog.

If you are in crisis or you think you may have an emergency, call your doctor, or dial 000 immediately. This blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

The opinions expressed in this blog are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of any affiliated organisations or institutions.