Learn how to recognise the signs of depression
Wednesday, 12 October 2022
-
At ECU there are lots of support services to help with mental health.
Depression is not uncommon and by recognising the signs that we are depressed it's possible to take action and make a change in our lives.
Figures released earlier this week show that in 2020 there has been a 15% increase in the number of Australia's seeking help for mental health. In Victoria where Covid-19 lock-downs have been in place over longer periods the figure is much higher with a 305 increase in the number of people seeking professional help.
What is Depression?
Depression has been called the “common cold of mental health”. It’s not the result of laziness, weakness, personal failure or lack of power. Depression is a prolonged and persistent negative mood that can colour and interfere with many aspects of your life.
Depression is not uncommon and can be triggered by a combination of environmental, biological, genetic and psychological factors
As a university student, you may find that you’re prone to depression from time to time, coping with the multiple stressors of school, work, friends and family. This is normal. Clinical depression however, usually involves the following combination of symptoms, persisting for more than a two week period.
Emotional symptoms
Sadness, anxiety, guilt, anger, mood swings, helplessness/hopelessness.
Physical symptoms
Sleeping too much or too little, excessive weight loss or gain, loss of sexual desire or lethargy.
Behavioural symptoms
Crying for no apparent reason, withdrawal from others, irritability, lack of motivation to set or meet goals, lack of interest in physical appearance or in former activities, turning to drugs or alcohol for support.
Thoughts/perceptions
Feelings of failure, self-criticism, pessimism about the future, self-blame or hopelessness
There are lots of ways to treat depression, including lots of things you can implement yourself. Take a look at tip sheet on depression to find out more about support organisations, strategies, and treatment options.
ECU Counseling team
If you need additional assistance reach out to the Student Counselling team.
Take a look at all the Tip Sheets available that cover issues including dealing with stress, procrastination, living with housemates, avoiding burnout and how to get a great night's sleep.
ECU Crisis Line
The ECU Out of Hours Crisis Line is also available. Call 1300 583 032 or text 0488 884 232
This phone support service operates from 4.30pm to 8.30am on weekdays, and 24 hours on weekends, providing students with mental health and well-being support. The service is intended to help callers find immediate relief from emotional distress, explore coping strategies for the current crisis.
You can also call services including Lifeline on 13 11 14 or lifeline.org.au or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636 or beyondblue.org.au
This week is WA Mental Health Week.