Depression can affect emotional cognitive, physical and behavioural functioning. Symptoms may include

• Persistent sadness or low mood
• Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
• Withdrawal from friends or family
• Sleep disturbance
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Difficulty concentrating or poor short-term memory
• Reduced libido
• Anxiety symptoms
• Fatigue or low energy
• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

Symptoms can vary in severity and may present differently between individuals.

Causes of Depression

Depression can develop due to a combination of biological, psychological, social and environmental factors. In some Individuals, there may be genetic vulnerability to depression, while in others symptoms may develop following significant stress of life events.

Contributing factors may include:

• Ongoing stress or burnout
• Greif or relationship difficulties
• Trauma or adverse life experiences
• Sleep difficulties
• Chronic medical illness
• Substance use
• Family history of depression
• Hormonal or life stage changes, including pregnancy and the postnatal period.

In some cases, there may not be a clearly identifiable cause.

Depression Assessment Sydney

A comprehensive psychiatric assessment is important when diagnosing depression, as symptoms may overlap with other mental health, or medical conditions.

Ours psychiatrists assess mood symptoms, sleep, medical history, lifestyle factors, psychosocial stressors and further medical assessments as part of the assessment process.

Treatment recommendations are individualised based on symptom severity, contributing factors, and overall wellbeing.

Treatment for Depression

Depression is a treatable condition, and many people experience significant improvement with appropriate care and support. Treatment recommendations depend on the severity of symptoms, contributing factors and individual circumstances.

For mild depression, treatments may begin with psychotherapy alone alongside general health measures such as improving sleep hygiene, exercise, nutrition and daily routine.

Treatments may include

• Psychodynamic Psychotherapy (Conversational Model)
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
• Lifestyle and sleep interventions
• Medication, where clinically appropriate

At Eastern Suburbs Psychiatry, treatment plans are tailored to the individual. Medication selection depends on a person’s symptoms, medical history, previous treatment response, and individual factors, as responses to antidepressant medication can vary between individuals

Our psychiatrists provide assessment and treatment for depression from across Sydney, including the Eastern Suburbs, Sydney CBD and surrounding areas, with patients attending from suburbs such as Darlinghurst, Chippendale and Rose Bay.

For an appointment, please call our practice on (02) 8359 1930 or complete the inquiry form here.