Am I depressed? The signs and symptoms of depression
Get the help you need for mental health with Medmate.
What are the signs and symptoms of depression?
Sadness is a normal human emotion that we all experience. Feeling low or sad is a natural reaction to stress, grief or simply having a bad day. However, there’s a difference between feeling sad and being depressed.
Depression is a mood disorder that causes persistent feelings of sadness or low mood, loss of interest in things you usually find enjoyable, and an inability to function during everyday activities.
Depression affects how you think, feel and behave. It isn’t something you can ‘snap out of’; it’s a serious medical condition that can get worse if not treated. It should be diagnosed by a professional.
It’s also very common; one in seven Aussies will experience depression in their lifetime. Females are more likely to be affected, too; women between 16 and 85 are about five per cent more likely than men to develop the mood disorder, according to Beyond Blue.
“It’s important not to think of depression as a singular event,” says Dr Ganesh Naidoo, Medical Director at Medmate. “It’s a normal part of human existence, and everyone has a lifetime risk of developing it, with many people experiencing it multiple times in their lives.
“It’s very treatable , but it’s about recognising symptoms, understanding they’re not temporary, then getting assistance as quickly as possible to get you through that period.”
What’s the difference between feeling sad and being depressed?
Sadness and depression are related, but they’re distinct emotional states. “Sadness is a natural human emotion that’s triggered by a specific event or situation such as loss or disappointment. However, the feeling is temporary. Sadness subsides as time passes or a situation passes,” explains Dr Naidoo.
“Depression is a longer-term mental illness. It’s persistent and affects the functioning of all important areas of your life. It’s usually classified by having a pervasive low mood, and a marked loss of interest or pleasure in everyday activities, persisting for at least two weeks.”
A good way of determining whether you’re depressed is to ask yourself what you used to enjoy in your life. “Think about what would be normal for you, then consider how things have changed. If you’ve had a persistent change in your feelings or attitude towards something you used to enjoy, that’s a very good indication there’s an underlying mood disorder,” says Dr Naidoo.
Signs and symptoms of depression
Everyone experiences depression differently. However, these are some common signs and symptoms of depression.
Emotional signs and symptoms
- Persistent low mood or loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy
- Feelings of worthlessness
- Feeling anxious or agitated
- Feeling irritable or angry
- Crying a lot or feeling sad
- Feeling overwhelmed or indecisive
Physical signs and symptoms
- 5% increase or decrease in appetite or weight
- Changes in sleep such as difficulty getting to sleep or staying asleep
- Headaches, muscle pains or stomach ache
- Butterflies or a churning stomach
- Feeling rundown or ill
Behavioural signs and symptoms
- Withdrawing from family or friends
- Persistent fatigue or lethargy
- Impaired or a significant change in concentration
- Suicidal ideation
I think I might be depressed. What should I do?
“If you’ve noticed a change in your mood that’s unusual for you, you should talk to your doctor, even if it’s prior to the two weeks that traditionally classifies depression,” says Dr Naidoo.
“Any changes in mood that are affecting your life with your family, your social circumstances or your ability to work are an indication that it’s worth discussing how you’re feeling with a health professional.”
How do I talk to my doctor about how I’m feeling?
Loss of memory and lack of concentration can be one of the symptoms of depression. To help you talk to your doctor effectively, it can be a good idea to keep a diary so you can give your doctor a rounded picture of how you’re feeling.
“Note down how you’re sleeping, eating, how you’re coping at work and with your personal relationships, and whether you’ve had any thoughts of suicide or death,” says Dr Naidoo.
“It’s important to be as open and upfront as possible so your doctor can get the full picture.”
How is depression diagnosed?
“Your doctor will take a full medical history as there could be contributing medical conditions that may be exacerbating or masking the condition,” says Dr Naidoo.
“They will also ask about any other contributing factors such as substance abuse, alcohol and drugs. Once they understand your full medical history, they will go through a questionnaire and ask some specific questions that might include details around whether your sleep, appetite or mood has changed over the past few weeks. These details can guide the doctor about whether the mood disorder is of a sufficient level that requires treatment, and what that treatment might be.”
I’ve been diagnosed with depression – what now?
“Depression is very treatable,” says Dr Naidoo. “With the right treatment, people can get back to normal functioning very quickly.”
Most people will be referred to psychological therapies such as CBT (cognitive behaviour therapy), and some people might need medical treatment.
I’m having suicidal thoughts, what should I do?
If you’re having suicidal thoughts, call Lifeline on 13 11 14. “You can also speak to your GP and tell them you’re having suicidal thoughts. They will arrange immediate help,” says Dr Naidoo.
You can also find immediate support at:
What’s next? How Medmate can help you
Talk to a Medmate doctor today for some initial advice.
“Medmate doctors are registered Australian doctors who are accessible seven days a week (including public holidays) to provide immediate mental health support,” says Dr Naidoo.
“This means you’re able to consult with a mental health doctor online from the comfort and privacy of your own home, either via video or audio call.
“During our virtual consultations you’ll discuss your symptoms and concerns with the doctor. They may ask extra questions to better understand your situation, confirm the diagnosis, and develop a mental health care plan.
“After the evaluation, the doctor will offer guidance on how to connect with mental health professionals, such as psychologists and psychiatrists. They’ll also be able to assist with treatment renewals to help you manage your mental health issue until your local GP is available.
Learn More
How To Consult With An Online Mental Health Doctor
Managing depression or anxiety can be challenging. This is normal. We know it can be hard to organise a doctor appointment and how inconvenient this can be when you don’t feel like facing the world. With Medmate, you can see a mental health doctor online from the comfort and convenience of home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is mental health important?
Mental health is important for several reasons, both on an individual and social level. Here are some of the reasons why mental health is important:
- Overall well-being: Good mental health is essential for your overall well-being and quality of life. It includes the ability to cope with stress, maintain positive relationships, and contribute to your relationships and society.
- Physical health: There is a strong link between mental and physical health. Poor mental health can lead to physical health problems such as chronic disease – heart disease, stroke, pain, diabetes and dementia.
- Productivity: Mental health affects your ability to function effectively in your personal and professional life.
- Relationships: Mental health impacts your ability to form and maintain positive relationships with others. It can also affect the quality of those relationships.
- Economic impact: Poor mental health has significant economic consequences for individuals, businesses, and society as a whole. It can lead to increased healthcare costs, lost productivity, and decreased economic growth.
- Stigma reduction: Improving mental health awareness and reducing stigma can encourage individuals to seek help when needed and improve overall mental health.
In summary, good mental health is important for individuals to lead fulfilling lives and contribute to society. It is also crucial for the economic and social well-being of communities and society at large. By prioritizing mental health, individuals and society as a whole can benefit from improved well-being, better relationships, productivity, and quality of life.
Need to talk to a doctor?
Connect to a Medmate doctor 7 days a week via our Telehealth service. Online doctors will be able to talk to you discreetly about your feelings in the safety and comfort of your home.
Click here to talk to an online doctor now
What are the benefits of getting support for your mental health?
Feeling apprehensive or uncertain about reaching out for help is completely normal.
You might be hesitant to share your thoughts and emotions or believe that your situation isn’t severe enough to warrant support. You could also be worried about becoming a burden to others.
The mental health care community consists of compassionate, non-judgmental professionals helping individuals, like yourself, who are at various points in their path to recovery.
We are here to stand by you and provide the support you need.
Need to talk to a doctor?
Connect to a Medmate doctor 7 days a week via our Telehealth service. Online doctors will be able to talk to you discreetly about your feelings in the safety and comfort of your home.
Click here to talk to an online doctor now
What is depression?
Depression is a mental health condition that is characterized by a persistent feeling of sadness or loss of interest in activities that one once enjoyed. Depression is a common but serious mood disorder that affects how a person feels, thinks, and handles daily activities, such as sleeping, eating, or working. The condition can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems and can affect all aspects of life, including relationships with family and friends. Depression alters all aspects of life such as motivation, sleep, energy levels, sex drive, appetite, and ability to cope with life stressors. Patients have no conscious control over these symptoms as they are due to an imbalance of a mood regulating neurotransmitter in the brain.
Need to talk to a doctor?
Connect to a Medmate doctor 7 days a week via our Telehealth service. Online doctors will be able to talk to you discreetly about your feelings in the safety and comfort of your home.
How common is depression?
One in seven Australian’s take antidepressants for anxiety and depression daily.
What is depression symptoms?
Symptoms of depression may include persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or emptiness, feelings of hopelessness or pessimism, feelings of irritability, frustration, or restlessness, loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities, fatigue or decreased energy, difficulty sleeping or oversleeping, appetite changes or weight loss, difficulty concentrating or making decisions, and thoughts of death or suicide.
Need to talk to a doctor?
Connect to a Medmate doctor 7 days a week via our Telehealth service. Online doctors will be able to talk to you discreetly about your feelings in the safety and comfort of your home.
How is depression treated?
Depression is a highly treatable condition. Research indicates that employing a biopsychosocial approach is most effective in creating a treatment plan. The connection and interdependence between the mind and body play a crucial role in addressing depression. As healthcare professionals, we ensure that patients receive optimal social support, have access to psychological counseling services, and are prescribed the appropriate medical treatments for depression. By implementing a comprehensive treatment plan, individuals can experience a remarkable transformation from feelings of despair and social isolation to a happy, fully functional life within a matter of months.
Need to talk to a doctor?
Connect to a Medmate doctor 7 days a week via our Telehealth service. Online doctors will be able to talk to you discreetly about your feelings in the safety and comfort of your home.
What is anxiety?
Anxiety is a medical condition marked by persistent and excessive worry. While stress and concern are natural responses to challenging situations, these feelings typically subside once the situation has passed or the stressor is removed. Anxiety becomes a disorder when these feelings persist or occur without any specific reason.
Various forms of anxiety exist, ranging from mild to severely distressing, and can impact an individual’s ability to engage in and enjoy everyday activities. It is possible for a person to experience more than one type of anxiety. Some individuals may also suffer from depression alongside anxiety, putting them at risk of developing issues such as alcohol or drug abuse.
Need to talk to a doctor?
Connect to a Medmate doctor 7 days a week via our Telehealth service. Online doctors will be able to talk to you discreetly about your feelings in the safety and comfort of your home.
What is social anxiety?
Social anxiety, also known as social anxiety disorder (SAD) or social phobia, is a mental health condition characterized by an intense, disabling fear of social situations, such as meeting strangers, dating, or public speaking, in which embarrassment or negative judgment by others may occur. People with social anxiety fear being judged and evaluated negatively by others, leading to feelings of inadequacy, inferiority, self-consciousness, embarrassment, humiliation, and depression. This fear can lead to intense discomfort and avoidance of social situations. The good news is that social anxiety disorder is treatable, and people can learn to manage their symptoms and live fulfilling lives.
Need to talk to a doctor?
Connect to a Medmate doctor 7 days a week via our Telehealth service. Online doctors will be able to talk to you discreetly about your feelings in the safety and comfort of your home.
Do I have anxiety?
To determine whether you have anxiety, you can evaluate your symptoms and their frequency. Anxiety issues can be challenging to identify because they often develop gradually and it can be difficult to determine when worry becomes excessive.
Typical anxiety is temporary and linked to specific situations or events, such as job interviews or exams. In contrast, anxiety experienced by those with an anxiety disorder is more constant, frequent, and not always related to an apparent stressor. While each anxiety disorder has unique characteristics, some common symptoms include:
- Physical symptoms: panic attacks, racing heart, hot and cold flashes, chest tightness, rapid breathing, restlessness, or tenseness.
- Psychological symptoms: excessive fear, worry, catastrophizing, or obsessive thinking.
- Behavioral symptoms: avoidance of situations that trigger anxiety, potentially impacting your studies, work, or social life.
Anxiety can manifest in different ways, and a medical professional can provide an accurate diagnosis based on your symptoms and medical history.
Talk to an online doctor today to provide an initial assessment and advice.
Need to talk to a doctor?
How to stop anxiety?
Anxiety can be a difficult condition to manage, but there are several strategies that can help. Here are some tips to help stop anxiety:
- Exercise regularly: Exercise is a powerful stress reducer that can improve your mood and help you stay healthy. Start out slowly, and gradually increase the amount and intensity of your activities.
- Practice controlled breathing: Poor breathing habits can contribute to anxiety and many of its symptoms. Try controlled breathing exercises to help calm yourself down.
- Use relaxation techniques: Visualization techniques, meditation, and yoga are examples of relaxation techniques that can ease anxiety.
- Make sleep a priority: Getting enough sleep is essential to feeling rested and reducing anxiety. If you are having difficulty sleeping, talk to your doctor.
- Eat healthy: Eating a healthy, balanced diet can help reduce anxiety symptoms. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and smoking, as these substances can exacerbate anxiety.
- Face your anxiety: Acknowledge and accept your anxiety. Avoiding or denying it can make it worse.
If these methods do not help to manage your anxiety, it may be time to seek professional help.
Need to talk to a doctor?
Connect to a Medmate doctor 7 days a week via our Telehealth service. Online doctors will be able to talk to you discreetly about your feelings in the safety and comfort of your home.
What should I expect during an online doctor consultation for mental health?
During an online consultation, you will discuss your symptoms, concerns, and medical history with the doctor. They may ask questions to better understand your situation and provide a diagnosis. Based on their assessment, the doctor will recommend appropriate treatment options and may prescribe medication if necessary.
Is it confidential to consult an online doctor about my mental health concerns?
Yes, online doctor consultations are confidential and follow strict privacy guidelines. Online doctors are registered Australian medical practitioners. Your personal information and medical records are protected under Australian privacy regulations.
How do I get help for mental health?
Need to talk to a doctor?
Connect to a Medmate doctor 7 days a week via our Telehealth service. Online doctors will be able to talk to you discreetly about your feelings in the safety and comfort of your home.
Click here to talk to an online doctor now
If you are interested in speaking to a Medmate online doctor about mental health concerns, here are some tips to help you prepare for your conversation:
- Write down your symptoms: Before your appointment, take some time to write down any symptoms or concerns you have been experiencing. This can help you remember important details when speaking with the doctor.
- Be honest: It’s important to be honest with your doctor about your symptoms, even if they are embarrassing or difficult to talk about. Your doctor is there to help you and provide the best care possible.
- Ask questions: Don’t be afraid to ask your doctor questions about your symptoms, diagnosis, or treatment options. Understanding your condition and treatment plan can help you feel more in control and confident in your care.
- Take notes: During your appointment, take notes on what the doctor says. This can help you remember important details and follow-up instructions.
- Follow through: If your doctor recommends any follow-up appointments or tests, be sure to follow through with them as directed.
Remember, Medmate online doctors are there to help you with your mental health concerns. By preparing ahead of time and being honest and open during your appointment, you can get the care you need to feel better.