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| The word "depression" is often used to describe the normal feelings of sadness which all of us experience at various stages of our lives. Because depression is so common, it is important to understand the difference between unhappiness or sadness in daily life and the symptoms of clinical depression. |
| Clinical depression is a state of extreme distress in which the sufferer feels empty or numb rather then merely sad. The depressed person is unable to enjoy life normally or have an emotional shift from the depressed state. |
| A persistent depressed mood may be the feature of a Mood Disorder when it is present all or most of the time for at least two weeks. |
In a Major Depressive Episode, someone might also experience:
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Suicidal thoughts are always abnormal, and are an indication of needing urgent help. |
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More information on depression can be found at the following websites:
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| Remember, you should seek professional help from a mental health professional, mental health service, your GP or health provider when problems arise. For general health information, referral & teletriage services call 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84) for the cost of a local call. |
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- the national depression initiative; a national, independent, not for profit organisation working to address issues associated with depression, anxiety and related substance misuse disorders in Australia.
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