Conditions
Understanding depression
What depression is, the signs to look for, and the treatments and support that help.
In plain terms
Depression is more than a low mood — it is a health condition that affects both your body and mind, and it can last for weeks, months or longer. It is common, and it is treatable. Doctors usually look for low mood or loss of interest, together with other symptoms, lasting most of the day on most days for about two weeks or more. That two-week mark is a guide for assessment, not a waiting period: if symptoms are severe, if you are losing touch with reality, or if you are thinking of suicide, get help straight away, however long it has been going on.
Signs to look for
Why it happens
Depression usually develops from a combination of biological, psychological and social factors — recent life events, personal and family history, physical illness, and some medicines and substances — rather than from a single cause. It is not simply a shortage of one brain chemical, and it is not a weakness. Part of the assessment is checking for other explanations, including past periods of unusually high or irritable mood, which change what treatment is right.
What helps
Talking therapy
Structured therapies like CBT help you understand and shift unhelpful patterns.
Medicines
Antidepressants such as SSRIs can help, especially for moderate-to-severe depression.
Everyday support
Routine, movement, sleep and trusted people all support recovery.
You’re not alone
Your GP is a good place to start the conversation and build a plan together. Treatment is matched to how severe the depression is, what has helped before, your preferences and your safety — routine, exercise and support are valuable, but they do not replace treatment that is needed urgently. Seek help promptly for thoughts of suicide. In Australia you can call 13YARN 13 92 76, Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636, Lifeline 13 11 14, or 000 in an emergency.
Where this information comes from
Official translated information
Official translated information, published by the organisation named in each link — we never translate anything ourselves.
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This sheet is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow the instructions from your own doctor or pharmacist.