Everyone feels down or moody sometimes, but persistently feeling low for long periods of time could indicate something more serious.
Depression is one of the most common mental health problems. One in thirty
Australian teens will be affected by depression. There are a variety of symptoms and different people are affected in different ways. The most common symptoms reported by children or adolescents who are depressed are listed below. Some people may have one or two symptoms, others might have many more.
Symptoms checklist
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Feeling sad or irritable
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Vague, non-specific physical complaints (headaches, stomachaches)
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Not wanting to go to school or grades dropping
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Feeling bored
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Alcohol or substance abuse
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Increased anger or hostility
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Reckless behavior
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Change in friends or social activity
The following symptoms are also experienced by individuals with depression
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Loss of interest in things previously enjoyed
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Significant change in weight (loss or gain) or in appetite
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Changes in sleep patterns – either being unable to sleep or sleeping excessively
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Change in motor function – either agitation or slowing
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Feeling worthless or guilty without reason
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Diminished ability to think, concentrate or make decisions
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Thoughts of death and dying or suicide
Treatments
The most common treatments involve psychological therapy or medication.
Treatment usually involves psychological therapy and medication can be added if needed. It is important that you discuss any concerns you have with your doctor or a mental health professional, and that a treatment plan that suits your individual needs is put in place.
Places you can get support
24 hour support numbers
Lifeline
Kids Helpline (5 – 25 years)
Mental Health Hotline
NSW Rape Crisis Centre
Parent Line
13 11 14
1800 551 800
1300 369 968
1800 424 017
1300 1300 52
Women’s Line
24 Hour Drug & Alcohol Line
1800 811 811
1300 66 22 63
Websites www.apawc.com.au
– links and resources www.lifeline.org.au
(Online counselling available) www.kidshelp.com.au
(Online counselling available) www.headspace.org.au/ https://moodgym.anu.edu.au/welcome http://moodgarden.org/