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One
in five Australians will experience depression in their lifetime.
This is the equivalent of more than a million people in any one
year. Depression and anxiety can be as serious, debilitating and
life-threatening as a physical illness - yet less than half of those
experiencing depression seek help. This is alarming because depression
is a major risk for suicide, especially in men. Becoming isolated
by withdrawing from social activities and being embarrassed about
feeling down are common behaviour patterns.
Depression is often preventable and always treatable. So if you
are feeling down or know someone who is showing signs of depression,
talk about it and seek help from a GP or call and make an appointment
at See Change Counselling and Medical Centre on 9542 2600.
If you need help immediately,
phone Lifeline - 13 11 14.
People should not be afraid to talk about depression. Effective
treatments are available and recovery from this illness is common.
"It takes time
to understand what has been happening. I am now glad that I have
been diagnosed with depression. The good side to it is I am only
thirty. I feel like I have been through hell and back - but, I'm
back. And the best thing is that life has never been so good for
me. Believe in yourself because that is the journey you need to
make." By Michelle
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Depression
Depression
Checklist
For the last 2 weeks have you had:
1. Depressed mood
2. Loss of interest or pleasure
If you answered 'YES' to either of these questions, complete the
symptom checklist below. Have you had:
1. Depressed mood most of the day
2. Less interest or pleasure in all activities
3. Weight loss or gain (when not dieting)
4. Sleeping difficulties
5. Slowed or fastened movements
6. Tiredness or loss of energy
7. Feeling worthless
8. Difficulty concentrating
9. Thoughts of death
If you scored 5 or more you may have depression. (EACH POINT IS
WORTH 1) make an appontment to talk about this with someone who
cares and knows how to help you. See Change Counselling and Medical
Centre 9542 2600.
Source:
American Psychiatric Association. (2000). Diagnostic and statistical
manual of mental disorders, 4th ed (DSM-IV). Washington, DC: APA.
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