What is depression?

Depression is more than just low mood. It’s a common psychological issue that is characterised by feeling sad, hopeless or low in mood. It is normal to feel these things every now and then, however for someone with depression, these symptoms occur persistently over a longer period of time i.e. more that 2 weeks, and impact negatively on their daily functioning.

Depression is fairly common, with 1 in 4 people experiencing significantly depressed mood at some point in their live. Depression doesn’t discriminate, and can affect any kind of person at any life stage, so you’re not alone.

mylife psychologists alexandria

What causes depression?

There may be a clear trigger for becoming depressed, but there doesn’t need to be and each person is different.  In fact, many people struggle with these experiences for many years before seeking help.  While we don’t know exactly what causes depression, a number of things are often linked to its development. Depression doesn’t typically develop as a result of one specific issue or event, and it usually develops from a combination of recent events and longer term or personal factors.

Depression can be caused by many different factors, and each person is different. For some people, a family history of depression, changes in brain chemicals, or their personality type can increase their risk. For others, certain life events such as long term unemployment, serious illness, or an abusive relationship can contribute to developing depression. Misusing drugs and alcohol can both lead to and result from depression, and it is common for people with depression to also struggle with substance problems. Often it is a combination of several factors that leads to depression.

What are the symptoms of depression?

Not all people experience the same symptoms, but most will experience a combination of several symptoms involving behaviours, thoughts and feelings, as well as physical symptoms. These can include:

  • Feeling sad, hopeless, unhappy, flat or down almost every day
  • Changes in appetite and/or weight
  • Insomnia or difficulty sleeping
  • Lack of interest in activities you usually feel pleasure in doing
  • Feeling tired and lethargic
  • Feeling worthless or having a negative self-view
  • Thoughts such as “life isn’t worth living” or “I am a failure”
  • Negative
  • Withdrawing from friends and family, or avoiding social functions
  • Falling behind at work or school
  • Using alcohol or drugs to cope with negative feelings

Psychological Treatments for depression

If you are depressed you’re not just going to be able to “snap out of it”. One of the most effective treatments for depression is Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT). In fact, research has shown that CBT is as effective as treatment with medication and has a higher rate of relapse prevention than medication alone, and works for a wide range of people. CBT helps people improve their mood by changing their thinking patterns and developing coping skills to deal with life’s challenges. Mindfulness is helpful for many people experiencing depression and anxiety, and particularly those with recurrent depressive episodes. Those experiencing longer-standing depression, perhaps with a history of problematic relationships and vulnerabilities in self-worth may also benefit from a Schema Therapy approach.

Here at MyLife Psychologists we are very skilled in helping people who have experienced depression or low mood and are trained in a range of high quality therapies that can help.

For more information or to book an appointment with one of our clinical psychologists, contact us.

Frequently asked questions about depression

Depression is a complex mental health condition that affects the way a person thinks, feels, and functions day to day. It goes beyond sadness or temporary low moods – it’s a persistent feeling of emptiness, hopelessness, or disinterest in things once enjoyed. Depression can impact sleep, appetite, concentration, motivation, and relationships. While it can feel isolating, depression is highly treatable with the right support. At its core, depression is not a sign of weakness or failure; it’s a recognised medical condition influenced by biological, psychological, and social factors.

Everyone feels sad or unmotivated from time to time, but depression tends to last longer and affect daily life more significantly. Common signs include ongoing sadness, irritability, loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities, fatigue, or withdrawal from others. You may find it difficult to get out of bed, concentrate, or feel hopeful about the future. Physical symptoms like sleep changes, appetite loss, or unexplained pain can also appear. If these feelings persist for more than two weeks or make it difficult to function, it may be time to speak with a psychologist or GP for assessment.

A formal diagnosis is made through a comprehensive conversation with a qualified psychologist or doctor. This involves talking together about your symptoms, how long they’ve been present, and how they impact your daily life. You might also be asked about your medical background, recent life stressors, and any family history of depression or anxiety. At times, brief questionnaires are used to help build a clearer picture of your experiences and guide the most appropriate support. The aim isn’t to label you, but to understand what’s happening so the right support and treatment plan can be developed. Diagnosis often provides relief by validating what you’re feeling and opening the path to recovery.

Treatment for depression usually combines therapy, lifestyle adjustments, and sometimes medication. Evidence-based therapies like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) help identify and reframe negative thinking patterns that fuel low mood. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT) focus on acceptance, emotional regulation, and reconnecting with personal values. Schema Therapy can help when depression is rooted in long-term self-beliefs or early life experiences. Exercise, nutrition, and good sleep hygiene are also important parts of recovery. For some, medication prescribed by a GP or psychiatrist can be beneficial when symptoms are more severe or persistent.

Not always. Many people recover from depression with psychological therapy alone, particularly when symptoms are mild to moderate, and evidence shows that therapy can be just as effective as medication in these cases, with benefits that often last beyond treatment. Therapy can help you understand contributing factors, develop effective coping strategies, and make meaningful, sustainable changes in your daily life. For some people – particularly when depression is more severe, long-standing, or significantly impacting daily functioning – medication can be a helpful part of treatment, either on its own or alongside therapy, as combined treatment is often more effective in these situations. At MyLife Psychologists, we respect that decisions about medication are highly personal and will support your preferences, whether you wish to focus on therapy alone or explore medication in collaboration with your GP or psychiatrist as part of a coordinated, individualised treatment plan.

There’s no set timeline for recovery, as each person’s experience with depression is different. Some people notice improvements after just a few sessions, while others may need several months of consistent therapy. Early intervention often leads to faster recovery. Factors like the severity of symptoms, underlying causes, support networks, and commitment to therapy all influence the timeline. In general, most clients start seeing positive change within 6 to 12 sessions. The goal isn’t just to reduce symptoms quickly but to create lasting improvements in mood, resilience, and overall wellbeing.

Yes – therapy is one of the most effective treatments for depression. It helps you make sense of your emotions, challenge negative thought patterns, and develop new ways to manage stress. Over time, therapy builds self-awareness, emotional regulation, and confidence. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is particularly well-supported by research, while approaches like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Mindfulness-Based Therapy provide tools for long-term resilience. Many clients also find therapy valuable for identifying the deeper life issues contributing to their depression and learning practical strategies to prevent relapse.

Depression presents differently for each person, but there are several recognised types:

  • Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). The most common form, marked by persistent sadness, low energy, and loss of interest in daily life.
  • Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia). A long-term, lower-grade depression lasting two years or more.
  • Postnatal Depression. Occurs after childbirth and can affect both mothers and fathers, often due to hormonal changes and lifestyle adjustment.
  • Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Depression that follows a seasonal pattern, typically worsening in winter months.
  • Bipolar Disorder. Involves episodes of depression alternating with periods of elevated or manic moods.

Recognising the type of depression helps determine which therapy or treatment plan will be most effective.

Supporting someone with depression can make a meaningful difference. The best approach is to listen without judgment and validate what they’re feeling. Avoid offering quick fixes or telling them to “snap out of it,” as this can make them feel misunderstood. Instead, encourage small steps like getting outside, maintaining a routine, or seeking professional help. Offer to help them book an appointment or accompany them to their first session if they’re anxious. Be patient. Recovery takes time, and even small gestures of kindness and consistency can help them feel less alone.

Your first session is a chance for your psychologist to get to know you and understand what brings you to therapy. You’ll talk about your current symptoms, history, and goals for treatment in a supportive, confidential setting. There’s no pressure to have everything figured out. The focus is on building trust and setting a foundation for future sessions. Your psychologist will explain the therapeutic approaches that might suit you best, such as CBT, ACT, or Schema Therapy. As therapy continues, you’ll develop practical strategies to manage low mood, regulate emotions, and rebuild motivation and self-worth.

We take a warm, client-centred approach to treating depression. Our team of experienced clinical psychologists uses evidence-based methods tailored to each individual’s needs. We recognise that no two experiences of depression are the same, so your treatment plan is designed around your personal history, symptoms, and goals. Sessions are compassionate, collaborative, and focused on practical outcomes. We also offer flexible appointment times, online consultations, and Medicare rebates to make therapy accessible. With a strong reputation for excellence in mental health care, we’re committed to helping you move forward with confidence and hope.