Tipsheet for Depression
Approximately one in five people experience a depressive episode during their lifetime. Depression is a very difficult illness for people to cope with and is most often characterised by:- Markedly reduced mood
- Loss of interest or enjoyment in previously enjoyed activities
- Reduced concentration and memory ability
- Sleep difficulties
- Appetite disturbance (either increased or reduced appetite)
- Feelings of hopelessness regarding your future
- Feelings of worthlessness and reduced self-esteem
- Ideas or acts of self-harm or suicide
- Reduced libido
Depending on the severity of the depressed mood, treatment can often involve both medication and psychological therapy. International studies suggest that the standard psychological treatment for depression is cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) that involves learning a number of strategies to minimise and manage the depressive symptoms. Some strategies will focus on things that the person can do behaviourally to get things on track and cognitive strategies are aimed at challenging the negative and unrealistic/unhelpful thinking styles that tend to cause and reinforce the depressed mood.
Your GP and/or psychiatrist will be able to provide information about available antidepressants to assist with the management of depressed mood.
Top 5 Top Tips at Managing Depressed Mood
1. Talk to Someone. It is important for a person experiencing depression to seek support. Some people find that the support that they can access from family and friends is adequate while other require more intensive support from a trained professional.2. Schedule Activities into your day. While your interest and motivation to engage in previously enjoyed activities will be very low, isolating yourself and staying at home will make the depressive symptoms worse.
3.Set Goals for Yourself. Depression can often result in reduced motivation and direction. Set some short-term goals that you would like to achieve within the next month and write down a plan to help you achieve those goals.
4. Think Realistically and Positively. Negative thinking and depressed mood go hand in hand. Be aware of the way in which your thinking is affecting your mood and try to see a more positive perspective.
5. Consult your GP. If your mood is very low and you have self-harming or suicidal thoughts, see your GP as soon as possible to discuss the possibility of medication and get referral to see a psychologist.