Depression Programs

What is depression

Depression is more than just a low mood - it is a serious illness. While we all feel sad, moody or low from time to time, some people experience these feelings intensely, for long periods of time and often without reason. People with depression find it hard to function every day and may be reluctant to participate in activities they once enjoyed.

Depression is one of the most common of all mental health problems. One in five people experience depression at some stage of their lives.

 

How do i get assessed and allocated to the appropriate treatment program for me?

Once you have made an appointment (CLICK HERE to find out more about making an appointment) you will receive an initial assessment with one of our clinicians who will then decide with you on the most appropriate treatment for your symptoms and your personal preference.

 

Further Information

www.beyondblue.org

Do i have depression?

To be diagnosed with clinical depression, you usually need to have one or both of the following for at least the past two weeks:

  1. Felt sad, down or miserable most of the time
  2. Lost interest or pleasure in most of your usual activities

 

PLUS some of the following

  1. Behaviorally – have stopped going out, being unable to get your usual tasks completed, have withdrawn from people close to you, be over-relying on alcohol or other substances, be unable to concentrate
  2. Thinking patterns – thinking things like “I’m a failure”, “nothing good ever happens to me”, “I’m worthless”, “life’s not worth living”
  3. Feelings – being overwhelmed, irritable, frustrated, guilty, lacking confidence.
  4. Physically – feeling tired or fatigued most of the time, feeling as though your stomach is churning, having constant unexplained muscle aches and pains, having difficulty sleeping, changes to your regular diet and weight.

 

What are the treatments offered at the R.E.A.D.Clinic?

All treatments at our clinic are based on evidence-based and best practice guidelines for the treatment of psychological disorders and difficulties. Based on these guidelines your clinician will advise you as to whether your symptoms are best treated by

  • Individual therapy – you will see a therapist in a one-on-one context for an average of around 6-12 sessions.
  • Group therapy – you will join a group of individuals with a similar diagnosis for approximately a 10 week program (click here for more details on the group program).
  • A combination of both individual and group therapy