Depression

Depression is more than just feeling sad or experiencing a rough patch, it is a serious mental health condition that affects the way people think, feel, and function in daily life.

Depression is characterised by persistent feelings of hopelessness, fatigue, and disinterest in activities we once enjoyed, often accompanied by changes in sleep, appetite, and concentration.

Whilst depression is complex and can stem from a variety of factors, including biological, psychological, and social influences, it is also highly treatable. If you or a loved one are experiencing depression, it’s important to know that with the right support, symptoms can be alleviated, allowing people to rediscover happiness, purpose and resilience.

Signs and
Symptoms of
Depression

Depression impacts people differently, but signs and symptoms commonly include:

  • Sadness
  • Overwhelm
  • Guilt
  • Irritability
  • Loss of confidence
  • Feeling tired all the time
  • Changes to sleep patterns and appetite
  • Withdrawing from friends and family
  • Increased use of alcohol or other drugs
  • Feelings that life is not worth living, thoughts of suicide or death

If you are struggling with any of the above it is important to seek help sooner rather than later.

If you have had thoughts of suicide or self-harm, know that you are not alone and that you need to stay safe and reach out for help.

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 000.

Getting Support

Self-help

There are a lot of self-help strategies you can use to manage and reduce your depression symptoms. Obvious things, like exercising regularly, eating healthily and getting enough sleep can make a big difference, as can doing healthy activities that you enjoy. Cutting back or stopping alcohol and nicotine can be a challenge but can also make a big difference.

Open Arms Australia

Depression can drive negative, unhelpful thoughts that impact people emotionally. Try this online tool provided by Open Arms Australia to identify negative thinking patterns and help change the way you think and feel about things. Open Arms also offers free counselling and group programs to help veterans understand and manage depression—click here to see upcoming sessions.

GP

Your GP is a good place to start will be able to discuss treatment options and referrals to specialist services. If you don’t have a regular GP, visit here to find one near you.

If you are a veteran, you can ask your GP for a Veterans Health Check, the cost of which is fully covered by the Australian Government.

Additional Information
& Support

Open Arms

Military-aware, confidential, and free mental health support for veterans and veteran families. Available 24/7 on 1800 011 046.

Lifeline

24/7 suicide prevention and crisis support. Provides all Australians access to crisis support and suicide prevention services. Call 13 11 14.

Suicide Call Back Service

Free 24/7 telephone counselling support if you are at risk of, or affected by, suicide. Delivered by trained counsellors at Lifeline. Call 1300 659 467.

MensLine Australia

Counselling, support and referral service for men.