Depression Treatment Gold Coast
Depression is more than feeling sad or going through a rough patch. It can bring a persistent low mood, loss of interest in things you used to enjoy, exhaustion, and a sense that everything takes more effort than it should. It can affect sleep, concentration, work and relationships, and it often builds slowly, so it can be hard to notice from the inside. Depression is common and well understood, and there are evidence-based psychological treatments that many people find helpful.
At listeningloudly psychology in Varsity Lakes, our Clinical Psychologists work with adults across the Gold Coast and Australia via telehealth who are living with low mood, loss of motivation, and depression following life changes, loss, relationship difficulties or long periods of stress. Depression and anxiety often occur together, and therapy can address both. Whether this has been with you for years or has crept up recently, therapy can help you understand what is keeping it going and give you practical ways to move forward.
Signs and symptoms
Depression looks different from person to person, and you may notice some of the signs below more than others. Having some of these signs does not mean you have depression, but if they are affecting your daily life, it may help to talk to someone. If you are having thoughts of suicide or are in crisis, call 000 or Lifeline on 13 11 14.
Persistent low mood: Feeling flat, empty or down most of the day, on most days, for weeks or longer.
Loss of interest: Hobbies, people and activities that used to matter no longer feel enjoyable or worth the effort.
Fatigue: Feeling drained or heavy, even after rest, so everyday tasks feel like a struggle.
Sleep changes: Trouble falling asleep, waking early, or sleeping much more than usual and still feeling tired.
Appetite changes: Eating noticeably more or less than usual, sometimes with weight changes.
Difficulty concentrating: Finding it hard to focus, remember things or make decisions, even small ones.
Feeling worthless or guilty: Harsh self-criticism, or a constant sense of letting yourself and others down.
Withdrawing from people: Pulling away from friends, family or work, or letting messages and invitations go unanswered.
Irritability: Feeling short-tempered, easily frustrated or on edge, which can show up more than sadness for some people.
Hopelessness: Feeling that things will not improve, or that there is no point in trying.
How therapy helps and what to expect at listeningloudly
Therapy for depression usually moves through stages, and we adjust the pace to suit you.
Getting to know you
In your first sessions we talk through what you have been experiencing, how long it has been going on, and what you would like to be different.
Understanding you
Together we look at the thoughts, habits and life circumstances that maintain low mood, so the patterns make sense and have a clear starting point.
Building practical skills
You learn and practise evidence-based strategies for low motivation, unhelpful thinking and withdrawal, tailored to your life and your pace.
Making it last
We review your progress, plan for difficult days and build on what is working, so you can keep using the skills after therapy ends.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if it is depression or just a low patch?
Everyone has low periods, and they usually ease as circumstances change. It may be worth talking to someone if low mood has lasted more than a couple of weeks, is affecting your sleep, work or relationships, or has taken the enjoyment out of things you normally like. A psychologist can help you work out what is going on, and a first appointment is a chance to talk it through.
Do I need medication, or can therapy help on its own?
Many people use psychological therapy on its own, and others combine it with medication. Psychologists do not prescribe medication, so if you want to discuss that option, your GP or a psychiatrist is the right person to ask. A psychologist can work alongside your GP if you decide to use both.
Do I need a referral to see a psychologist for depression?
You don't need a referral to book with a psychologist. However, a GP can prepare a Mental Health Treatment Plan (often called a Mental Health Care Plan), which allows you to claim Medicare rebates on a set number of sessions each calendar year. Your GP can tell you whether you're eligible. Sessions are available face-to-face in Varsity Lakes or by telehealth from anywhere in Australia.
listeningloudly offers expert and compassionate clinical psychology services for most concerns and difficulties, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, life transitions, self-esteem, work and employment issues.
Whatever brings you to us - you are welcome here. Whether you are facing a life challenge or would like to improve your mental health and wellbeing we offer individualised care, customised to your particular needs and goals. To find out more about our practice and who we work with, see our Clinical Psychology Services on the Gold Coast.