talking about it Depression

What is Depression Who is affected Risk factors for Depression Signs and Symptoms Treatments The lived experience of Depression How to help someone experiencing Depression Overview

talking about it “Clinical Depression is an illness that significantly affects the way someone feels, causing a persistent lowering of mood” What is Depression?

talking about it Who is affected by Depression? 4.1% of the Australian population will experience a Depressive illness in a 12 month period.

talking about it Family history/Genetic factors Biochemical factors Environmental stressors Personal traits Physical illness or medical conditions Alcohol and other recreational drugs Risk factors for Depression

talking about it Depressed mood Irritability Inability to concentrate Decreased energy Changes in appetite Changes in sleep patterns Sense of worthlessness or guilt Suicidal thoughts Signs and Symptoms of Depression

talking about it Medication Individual therapy Community support Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) Treatments for Depression

talking about it “Depression is not exclusive to the white English speaking population. It affects people from all cultures” Cultural Perceptions

talking about it G Gather information e.g. observations, asking others. Look for signs and symptoms. R Respond: talk and listen non judgmentally to the person and give reassurance. I Involve others: encourage the person to seek professional help, eg from a GP, Psychologist, Psychiatrist or Mental Health Services. P Plan: to encourage the use of self help techniques such as support groups, medication compliance and stress management. How to help someone who may be experiencing Depression

talking about it See a Doctor Be active Look after your health Change unhelpful thinking Try to solve problems that make you stressed Beating the blues

talking about it Myth or Fact? Mental illness only affects a few people Mentally ill people are violent People with a mental illness should be kept in hospital People with a mental illness never get better Questions for discussion

Living with Depression

Questions?

talking about it Depression is an illness that causes a persistent lowering of mood It affects 6.2% of the Australian population each year Depression is triggered by a combination of risk factors rather than there being a single cause Summary

talking about it Depression is more than feeling ‘blue’ Treatment can include a combination of medication, individual therapy and community support There are many ways to help yourself if you are experiencing signs of Depression GRIP Summary

talking about it Where to seek help and information Services See your local GP Mental Health Services Psychologist Psychiatrist Community Health Centre Local Support Groups Counselling Services Local Hospital

talking about it Where to seek help and information