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Depression is a common but serious mental health issue. Everyone feels down, low or moody now and then, but depression is more than simply ‘feeling down’. There are a number of symptoms, which may present differently in different people (which is why a professional evaluation is recommended). Depression will impact on a person’s daily functioning and relationships.  

According to the Australian Psychological Society, an individual may be depressed if, over a certain length of time, they experience at least one of the following: 

- a sense of sadness, emptiness, or low mood for most of the day, nearly every day.  

- a loss of interest or pleasure in almost all activities, even ones that they usually enjoyed. 

Symptoms of depression may also include lethargy, worry and negative thought patterns, as well as physiological signs such as changes to sleep patterns and appetite.  

In Australia, one million people experience depression each year. If you’re feeling this way, know that you are not alone - and also that depression is treatable, and help is available. 

Educating yourself is an important first step. If you feel like you identify with the signs and symptoms listed above, a great next step would be to make an appointment with your GP to flag how you’re feeling. Your GP can give you some personalised advice, and if necessary, can help you to make an appointment with a psychologist, discuss medication options if appropriate, or advise on lifestyle changes that can support you in your recovery.   

If you need to speak to someone urgently:  

- Call Lifeline on 13 11 14, text them 24/7 on 0477 13 11 14, access Lifeline Crisis Chat 24/7 here 

- Call 13YARN on 13 92 76 (24/7) to talk with an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Crisis Supporter 

- Call Kids Helpline 1800 551 800  

If you’re in an emergency situation or need immediate assistance, go to your local emergency department or call emergency services on 000.    

Australians can access up to 10 Medicare-subsidised sessions with a psychologist per calendar year, under a Mental Health Care Plan. See your GP for a Care Plan and referral.

Most psychologists will still charge a gap fee (approximately $80) per session after the rebate is applied. Some services do offer free psychologist visits - please speak with your GP to find out about what’s on offer in your area.  

Young people aged 12-25 can access support via headspace, which offers online and phone counselling.  

If you are employed, check if you have access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) through your workplace (this may be listed in your contract, or you could ask HR). An EAP typically offers free, confidential assessments and/or short-term counselling for employees. Some workplaces will extend EAP services to immediate family members, so you may also be able to access free psychological support though a family member’s EAP provider.  

There are also a number of free or affordable online programs available for those in need of support. For example, This Way Up and myCompass.

If you need to speak to someone urgently:   

- Call Lifeline on 13 11 14, text them 24/7 on 0477 13 11 14, access Lifeline Crisis Chat 24/7 here

- Call 13YARN on 13 92 76 (24/7) to talk with an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Crisis Supporter 

- Call Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800.  

If you’re in an emergency situation or need immediate assistance, go to your local emergency department or call emergency services on 000.   

If you find that there is a very long wait time to see a psychologist, you could try asking your GP to refer you to a psychologist with shorter waiting times (if you plan to claim a Medicare rebate under a Mental Health Care Plan). If you are not using a Mental Health Care Plan, you do not need a referral from a GP to book an appointment with a psychologist - in this case, you could try contacting several psychologists in your area to enquire about wait times.  

Young people aged 12-25 can also try your nearest headspace centre, or check out the headspace website to access free online support from a mental health clinician.    

There are also a number of free or affordable online programs which are available anytime for those in need of support, including This Way Up and myCompass.

If you need help right now, these free helplines are available 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week, anywhere in Australia:   

- Call Lifeline on 13 11 14, text them 24/7 on 0477 13 11 14, access Lifeline Crisis Chat 24/7 here

- Call 13YARN on 13 92 76 (24/7) to talk with an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Crisis Supporter 

- Call Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800.  

If you are having thoughts of ending your life, this can feel frightening, confusing and isolating. It’s really important that you speak to someone about what’s going on in your life and how you feel. If you're struggling to hold on to hope, or feeling overwhelmed, please remember that help is always available. Reaching out is the first step - unfortunately we are not a crisis support service, so talk to someone now:   

- Call Lifeline on 13 11 14, text them 24/7 on 0477 13 11 14, access Lifeline Crisis Chat 24/7 here

- Call 13YARN on 13 92 76 (24/7) to talk with an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Crisis Supporter 

- Call the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467   

In addition to contacting a crisis line, it’s also important to reach out to a friend or family member if possible, to let them know you are feeling suicidal.  

If you are in an emergency, or at immediate risk of harm to yourself or others, please contact emergency services on 000.