Depression: symptoms and support

Depression is more than having a sad day. It can affect mood, sleep, appetite, concentration, energy, hope and the ability to enjoy life. It is common, serious and treatable.

Urgent support: If you are thinking about suicide, harming yourself, or you feel unable to stay safe, contact local emergency services, a crisis line or go to the nearest emergency department now.

Common signs

Low mood, emptiness, hopelessness or frequent crying.
Loss of interest in things that used to matter.
Sleep changes, appetite changes or constant tiredness.
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions.
Feeling worthless, guilty or unusually self-critical.
Thoughts of death, self-harm or suicide.

What helps?

Please seek treatment from a GP, psychologist, counsellor or mental health professional if symptoms continue, worsen or affect daily life. Treatment may include therapy, lifestyle support, social support, medical assessment and sometimes medication prescribed by a doctor.

Read depression facts and myths or learn more about depression.

Take the next step toward support

Information can be helpful, but lasting progress often begins when you seek treatment and support. If fear, anxiety, avoidance, low mood, OCD symptoms or eating concerns are affecting your life, please speak with a qualified health professional.

Our AI Phobia Support Chat can help you calmly explore what is happening and prepare questions for a doctor, psychologist or counsellor. It does not replace professional care.

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Book a stress management seminar

One of our experienced professional team members may be available online, or may be able to travel to selected areas, to present practical education on managing fears, phobias, anxiety and inner restlessness.

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Wellbeing education only. Not diagnosis, treatment, cure, crisis support or a replacement for medical or psychological care.

Need a calm first step?

Use the AI Phobia Support Chat to talk through a fear, organise your thoughts and prepare for professional help.

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Seek treatment early

If fear, panic, avoidance, low mood, OCD symptoms or eating concerns are affecting daily life, please seek treatment from a qualified GP, psychologist, counsellor or mental health professional.

In crisis?

If you feel at risk of harming yourself or someone else, contact local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency department now.