We recognise that each individual has unique experiences. We employ evidence-based therapeutic techniques from a range of therapies to help to understand how and why depression may be affecting you, and assist you to address the depressive symptoms that are causing you distress and adversely impacting your life.

Recognising symptoms of depression

Depression manifests in various ways. Symptoms may include:

• Feelings of persistent sadness or emptiness

• Loss of interest or pleasure in previously enjoyed activities

• Increased irritability

• Forgetting things more than usual, and/or difficulty concentrating

• Low self-confidence, feelings of worthlessness, and/or excessive guilt

• Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or hypersomnia (excessive sleep)

• Appetite changes, such as losing your appetite

Some people may also experience thoughts of death and suicidal thinking or behaviour.

Depression often presents differently from person-to-person. Not having all of the symptoms doesn’t negate the presence of depression, and there are a variety of different disorders through which depression itself can manifest.

Types of depressive disorders

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is often the most widely known form of depression, and it is characterised by feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in things that you would have previously enjoyed.

Symptoms of MDD often last for weeks or months and interfere with daily life. This type of depression can either come on suddenly, or slowly get worse over time. It feels heavy, exhausting, and hopeless.

Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD)

Persistent Depressive Disorder is generally characterised as depression that has lasted for at least two years, but on a milder level than MDD.

Chronic depression can make you feel a bit numb to life. It is hard to enjoy things, it’s hard to feel optimistic, and often people will describe living life as if on autopilot - going through the motions but without feeling much of a sense of purpose or meaning.

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar Disorder is primarily known for episodes of mania or hypomania. However, it also involves depressive episodes, which are often very severe. People with Bipolar Disorder generally experience periods of depression and periods of mania, with periods of “normal” moods in between.

Mania might be characterised by having lots of energy, lack of sleep, having racing thoughts and talking quickly, and just generally feeling great. Some people with Bipolar Disorder may experience periods of psychosis, including hallucinations, delusions, and / or paranoia.

Perinatal Depression

It is very common for Postpartum Depression to affect new mothers and fathers, and for Antenatal Depression to affect pregnant women. Perinatal Depression, which includes pregnancy and the first 12 months after delivery, is often characterised by overwhelming feelings of sadness, anxiety and exhaustion. Perinatal depression is known to occur in one in seven women who give birth (Harvard Health Publishing 2020), and increasingly recent research recognises that new fathers may experience periods of depression too in the months after having a child.

It can be hard to recognise perinatal depression sometimes - am I just not sleeping well? Is it just normal worry about my baby? Am I just adjusting to being a new parent? Were my expectations just too high? If you’re not sure, it’s okay to ask. We would be more than happy to support you through what can be a very difficult time.

Depression treatment options

Treating depression involves consideration of the individual’s circumstances and preferences.

For some, a combination of antidepressants, self-help therapies, and lifestyle adjustments can be enough. However, for many, psychotherapy remains a cornerstone of depression recovery.

If your symptoms are not resolving, or you’re not sure whether what you’re doing is helpful, talking through concerns and feelings with a psychologist can help.

With years of experience offering treatment for children and adults with depression and depressive disorders, our Sydney-based psychologists are experienced in providing depression treatment and support, including Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Schema Therapy.

Depression Psychologists Sydney

Book at our Sydney psychology practice

Addressing depression through professional guidance can have a positive impact on your mental health, and improve your overall quality of life. Our team of psychologists in Sydney’s CBD aim to create a supportive environment tailored to address your individual needs.

If you’re seeking support with depression, book your appointment at our Sydney psychology office by contacting us through our website form, emailing us at admin@brodieearl.com, or giving us a call on 0450 808 917.

Brodie Earl Clinical Psychology does not provide emergency crisis services. If you feel the urge to harm yourself, or require urgent assistance, you should present immediately to your local Emergency Department or call 000.