Depression And Low Mood

Depression is common in Australia but treatable. Learn symptoms, causes, treatment options, and how Doccy can help you with a Mental Health Care Plan.

Dr. Louis J Sisk

BSc(Hons) MBChB MRCS(Glasg) MTrauma

Published: August 23, 2025

What You Need to Know – The Basics

• Depression—and related low mood—is common in Australia and often responds well to treatment.
• In 2020–2022, about 21.5% of Australians aged 16–85 experienced a 12-month mental disorder, and approximately 7.5% had an affective disorder such as depression (~1.5 million people).¹
• Treatments including talking therapies (eg, cognitive-behavioural therapy), medicines (SSRIs/SNRIs), and for persistent cases, rTMS, ECT, or esketamine, are accessible—with Medicare rebates and PBS subsidies.^{2 3 4 5 6}
• Exercise is a powerful treatment—varying types such as walking, jogging, yoga, strength training or dance all help, with more intense activities offering greater benefits.^{7 8}
• Emergency? If symptoms are severe, deteriorating, or you feel unsafe, call 000 immediately.

Overview

Depression involves persistent low mood, loss of interest or pleasure, and changes in thinking, sleep, appetite, or energy. It impacts daily life, relationships, work or study, and at its most serious, increases risk of self-harm or suicide. But effective treatments exist and can restore hope and function.⁹

Statistics and Prevalence in Australia

• The 2020–2022 National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing reported a 12-month mental disorder prevalence of 21.5%, with lifetime prevalence of 42.9%.¹
• Affective disorders such as depression affected around 7.5% of Australians aged 16–85.¹
• The issue is particularly common in younger people—mental disorders among 16–24-year-olds rose to ~39%.¹
• Mental and substance-use conditions remain leading contributors to Australia’s disease burden; depression is a core contributor.¹⁰

Symptoms and Clinical Presentation

Depression affects how a person feels, thinks, and functions. Symptoms vary from mild to severe and often persist for at least two weeks. Recognising the wide range of possible signs helps with earlier support and intervention.

Core Symptoms

• Low mood: persistent sadness, emptiness, tearfulness, or irritability.
• Loss of interest or pleasure (anhedonia): activities that once felt enjoyable (socialising, hobbies, work, or sex) may no longer bring satisfaction.
• Fatigue or slowed function: low energy, reduced motivation, or noticeable slowing of speech and movements.
• Sleep changes: difficulty falling asleep, early morning waking, or, conversely, sleeping too much.
• Appetite and weight changes: eating significantly more or less than usual, sometimes leading to weight gain or loss.
• Cognitive difficulties: trouble concentrating, indecisiveness, or poor memory.
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt: harsh self-criticism, shame, or hopelessness.
• Thoughts of death or suicide: these are red flag symptoms and require urgent medical attention—call 000 if there is immediate risk.

Physical and Somatic Symptoms

Depression often presents with physical complaints:

• Headaches, unexplained pain, or gastrointestinal issues
• Muscle tension or vague body aches
• Changes in libido or sexual functioning

Because of this, depression may initially appear as a “physical” illness rather than an emotional one—especially in older adults or culturally diverse populations.

Differences Across Age Groups

• Adolescents and young adults: irritability, withdrawal from friends or school, risky behaviours, substance use, or self-harm may be more prominent than sadness.
• Older adults: memory difficulties, slowed thinking, appetite changes, or sleep problems may dominate. Depression can be mistakenly attributed to “normal ageing” or physical illness.
• Perinatal depression: during pregnancy or after birth, mood changes, exhaustion, and anxiety may occur. This requires early recognition as it affects both parent and infant wellbeing.

Severity Spectrum

• Mild depression: some impact on daily life, but the person can still manage basic responsibilities.
• Moderate depression: marked difficulty coping with work, study, or social roles.
• Severe depression: inability to function day-to-day, frequent suicidal thoughts, or psychotic symptoms (delusions or hallucinations). This is a medical emergency.

⚠️ Safety reminder: Any mention of suicidal thoughts or self-harm should be taken seriously. If you or someone you know is at immediate risk, call 000. Crisis lines such as Lifeline 13 11 14 are available 24/7.

Causes and Risk Factors

Depression does not usually have a single cause. Instead, it arises from the interaction of biological, psychological, and social factors. Understanding these can help identify risks early and guide prevention or treatment.

Biological Factors

• Brain chemistry: Depression is linked to imbalances in neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and noradrenaline, which regulate mood, motivation, and sleep.¹⁰
• Hormonal changes: Shifts in oestrogen, progesterone, thyroid, and cortisol levels may trigger depressive symptoms. This is particularly relevant in pregnancy, postpartum periods, and menopause.
• Chronic illness: Long-term health conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or chronic pain are strongly associated with depression—often through both biological effects and the emotional strain of illness.

Genetic Predisposition

• A family history of depression or other mood disorders increases the likelihood of developing depression.
• Genetic factors are thought to account for around 30–40% of risk, with the remainder shaped by environment and life events.

Psychological and Social Stressors

• Grief and loss: The death of a loved one, relationship breakdown, or major life change can trigger or worsen depressive symptoms.
• Trauma and abuse: Past or ongoing trauma—including emotional, physical, or sexual abuse—significantly raises vulnerability.
• Isolation and loneliness: Reduced social support and limited community connection are recognised as important risks, particularly for older Australians and people in rural or remote communities.
• Socioeconomic pressures: Financial strain, insecure housing, unemployment, or workplace stress are linked to higher rates of depression in national surveys.¹

Childhood Adversity

• Early experiences shape mental health across the lifespan.
• A recent Australian study found that around one in five adult depression cases (21%) are linked to childhood maltreatment, including neglect and abuse.¹¹
• This highlights the importance of early detection, safe environments for children, and trauma-informed care for adults with lived experience.

Cultural and Environmental Factors

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples face higher rates of depression, influenced by intergenerational trauma, racism, and health inequities. Access to culturally safe services is vital.
• Natural disasters and climate events (fires, floods, drought) have been linked to increased distress, especially in rural and regional Australia.¹⁰

Together, these factors illustrate why depression looks different in each individual. Risk builds cumulatively: someone with a genetic predisposition who experiences trauma and ongoing social stressors is more vulnerable than someone exposed to only one factor.

Diagnosis (Australia)

A GP assesses symptoms, severity, and self-harm risk, screens for alternatives (eg, bipolar disorder, thyroid issues), and may use brief questionnaires like the K10 or PHQ-9—tools to guide care, not definitive diagnostics.^{12 13} With a Mental Health Treatment Plan, you may access up to 10 individual and 10 group therapy sessions per calendar year via Better Access (including telehealth).²

Treatment Options in Australia

Psychological Therapies

• CBT and interpersonal therapy are first-line approaches for mild to moderate depression.
• Digital options such as MindSpot (free) and THIS WAY UP (low cost) offer structured, evidence-based online treatment.^{14 15}

Medications

• SSRIs/SNRIs can be effective, particularly when combined with therapy.
• Most antidepressants are PBS-subsidised, capping your co-payment (2025: $31.60 general; $7.70 concession) with Safety Net support.³

Brain Stimulation & Novel Treatments

• rTMS (repetitive magnetic stimulation) is MBS-subsidised for treatment-resistant depression.⁴
• ECT remains vital for severe or melancholic depression, with updated MBS items (from 1 March 2024) for in-hospital use.⁵
• Esketamine nasal spray (Spravato®) is PBS-subsidised for eligible treatment-resistant cases (requires specialist assessment).⁶

Access & Affordability

• Under Better Access, Medicare rebates apply to sessions with allied health professionals. Bulk billing, low-gap clinics, and Head to Health or Medicare mental health centres offer affordable local options.¹⁶
• Your GP can also prescribe and explain PBS medicine costs and Safety Net benefits.

Living Well and Self-Management

• Routine: gentle daily structure (eg, set wake time, short walk, one activity)
• Movement: exercise has antidepressant-like effects—walking, dancing, strength training or yoga help; intensity matters but enjoyment is key.⁷ [^news-bmj] ¹⁷
• Sleep: regular sleep habits, calming evening routine, minimal screens
• Nutrition & Substance Use: balanced meals, limited alcohol/illicit substances
• Connection: low-pressure contact with friends, community involvement
• Track and Plan: use PHQ-9 or K10 to observe trends and safety planning tools like Beyond Now app.¹⁸
• Consider culturally safe supports if identifying as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander—services such as 13YARN and ACCHOs (via NACCHO) are available.^{19 20}

Prevention / Early Action

• Seek professional advice if low mood lasts longer than two weeks or significantly impairs day-to-day functioning—early intervention can prevent symptoms from worsening or recurring.(^1)
• Evidence from Australia supports lifestyle-based, multidisciplinary approaches as effective for both treating and preventing depression. This includes a mix of nutrition, sleep, movement, stress management, substance use reduction, and social support delivered by a team of health professionals.(^2)
• Dietary improvements are increasingly recognised as foundational in Australian clinical guidelines for mood disorders. Rapid dietary changes are associated with noticeable improvements in depressive symptoms.(^3)
• Maintaining healthy living habits is cost-effective, mutually beneficial for physical and mental health, and improves quality of life. Public health messaging now emphasises the “domino effect” of combining activity, good nutrition, and sleep.(^4)

When to Seek Help Now

• Call 000 immediately in situations of urgent danger—such as self-harm, chest pain, severe behavioural changes, or disorientation.
• Australian 24/7 crisis support lines include:
  • Lifeline: 13 11 14 — confidential crisis support for all ages.(^10)
  • Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 659 467 — professional counselling for suicidal thoughts.(^10)
  • Kids Helpline (5–25 years): 1800 55 1800 — free counselling for younger individuals.(^10)
  • 13YARN for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples: 13 92 76 — culturally safe support.(^27)
  • Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636 — support for depression and anxiety.(^26)

Key Takeaways

• Depression is common but treatable. You’re not alone, and effective care is available.
• CBT, therapy, medications, and importantly, exercise are evidence-based and accessible.
• Medicare (Better Access) and PBS help reduce financial barriers—Doccy can assist with navigating these pathways.
• Gentle routines, movement, connection, and coping tools are practical parts of recovery.
• Urgent? Call 000 now. Crisis lines are available 24/7.

This page is for general information only and is not a substitute for medical advice.

References