Depression Brisbane Northside
One of the most frequently-consulted cases among Brisbane psychologists is depression. Research reveals that one out of five people undergoes depression in their lifetime. It must also be noted that depression is different from sadness. Depression is a result of a series of circumstances and personal factors. It is the fourth most treated illness in Australia and can affect people of any age. Depression relapse can occur over and over if inappropriate intervention is given. This can also lead to substance abuse, relationship problems, and increased risk of suicide.
Depression Defined
Depression is a major depressive disorder that negatively affects the cognitive and emotional condition of an individual. An individual with depression can experience feelings of sadness and loss of interest in the usual activities being enjoyed. It also cripples the person afflicted of his or her ability to function either at work or at home.
Depression Symptoms
It is best to look at depression in a mild to severe spectrum. Commonly-encountered symptoms of depression include:
- Unexplained feelings of sadness or depressed mood
- Loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed
- Weight loss or weight gain
- Sleeping problems – either sleeping too little or too much
- Fluctuating energy
- Slowed movements
- Agitation
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Difficulty in concentrating or making decisions
- Thoughts of death or suicide
If these symptoms are present, it is best to consult a psychologist for proper mental health assessment.
Differentiating Sadness and Depression
While the two conditions are difficult to bear emotionally, being sad is not the same as having depression. Depression and sadness are two conditions that involve withdrawal from people and a loss of interest in usual activities. However, the two differ considering these two factors: duration of pain and grief and self-esteem factors.
For example, a death of a loved one or a job loss can lead to sadness and depression. The two can intertwine, but sadness can take place without depression. When depression is experienced, the abovementioned symptoms are consistent for a period of two weeks or more.
Treating Depression
While reoccurrence of depression happens, it is one of the most treatable conditions among the mental disorders. Approximately, 80 to 90 percent of the patients respond to the designed treatment for them.
A mental health professional would conduct diagnostic assessment through an interview and physical examination. A blood test may also be requested to ensure that the depression symptoms are not coming from an underlying illness.
Mental health professionals would recommend the use of antidepressants for a period or 6 months or more, depending on the recovery from the symptoms. Along with this, psychotherapy may also be recommended where the patient can evaluate their thoughts and frame it positively.
Individuals undergoing severe major depression may be recommended to go through an electroconvulsive therapy to improve electrical stimulation of the brain.
If you are interested in a consultation or finding out possible treatments for depression, please contact Mark Korduba at 3857 3777 or book an appointment online for an initial assessment.
Mark works out of offices in Stafford and also does pre sentence court reports
