Patient Guide
Understanding Low Mood & Depression
What depression really is, and the first steps towards feeling better
1 in 7Australians affected in their life
Treatablemost people improve with support
It's reala health condition, not a flaw
Depression is common, real, and treatable. Feeling low now and then is part of being human. But when low mood lingers for weeks and starts to dim everything — sleep, energy, interest, hope — that's depression, and it's a health condition, not a weakness or something to "snap out of". With the right help, most people get better.
How depression can show up
Low or flat mood
Persistent sadness, emptiness or tearfulness — or feeling numb and "switched off".
Most days, for two weeks or more.
Losing interest
Things you used to enjoy stop feeling worthwhile, fun or rewarding.
Sometimes the first sign before sadness.
Sleep & energy
Sleeping too little or too much, and feeling drained even after rest.
Early-morning waking is common.
Appetite & focus
Eating more or less than usual, and finding it hard to concentrate or decide.
Weight can drift up or down.
Harsh self-talk
Guilt, worthlessness, or feeling you're a burden to those around you.
Depression distorts how you see yourself.
Physical symptoms
Aches, headaches or gut symptoms with no clear cause can be part of it too.
The body feels low mood as well as the mind.
Low mood, or something more? Everyone feels down sometimes — that usually lifts within days. Depression is deeper and lasts longer: low mood or lost interest most of the day, most days, for two weeks or more, affecting how you function. If that sounds like you, it's worth seeing your GP — this is exactly what we're here for.
If you need to talk to someone now — you don't have to cope alone. These free, confidential services are open 24/7: Lifeline 13 11 14 · Beyond Blue 1300 22 4636 · Suicide Call Back Service 1300 659 467 · Emergency 000.
Small steps that can help alongside treatment
1
Keep a rhythm
Regular sleep, meals and getting up help anchor the day
2
Move your body
Even a short daily walk genuinely lifts mood
3
Stay connected
Tell one person you trust; don't withdraw alone
4
Be kind to yourself
Small wins count; limit alcohol, which lowers mood
Please see your GP soon if
- Low mood has lasted more than two weeks
- It's affecting work, study, family or self-care
- You're sleeping or eating very differently
- You're using alcohol or drugs to cope
- You feel hopeless, trapped or worthless
- Any thoughts of harming yourself — please reach out today
What your GP can offer
- A calm, confidential conversation — no judgement
- A Mental Health Care Plan for subsidised psychology
- Talking therapies such as CBT
- Antidepressant medicine if it's right for you
- A check for causes like thyroid, iron or B12
- Regular review — we adjust until you feel better
Reaching Out Is the Hardest, Bravest Step
Depression lies and tells you nothing will help. It's wrong. Book an appointment — or if today feels too much, call Lifeline on 13 11 14.
— Dr Regu
