Depression

Depression is more than just feeling sad or having a bad day. It’s a serious mental health condition that affects how we think, feel and function – at work, home and in social situations. Fortunately, depression is highly treatable.

Types of depression

  • Major depressive disorder (MDD): characterised by ongoing feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in activities that used to bring happiness
  • Persistent depressive disorder (dysthymia): a chronic form of depression with symptoms lasting at least two years
  • Bipolar disorder: involves episodes of depression alternating with periods of mania or hypomania
  • Seasonal affective disorder (SAD): depression that occurs at certain times of the year, usually in winter, and
  • Postnatal (postpartum) depression: severe depression after childbirth that affects mothers and sometimes fathers.

Get help for depression.

Although common, depression is treatable with therapy, medication and lifestyle changes. Seeking help to understand the causes and symptoms can help you to lead a more fulfilling life.

Contact us today to learn more about how Avive can help you manage depression.

Symptoms of depression

  • Persistent sadness or empty mood
  • Loss of interest in activities
  • Changes in appetite or weight
  • Difficulty sleeping or oversleeping
  • Low energy or fatigue
  • Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
  • Difficulty concentrating, and
  • Thoughts of death or suicide.


Causes and risk factors

Depression can result from a mix of genetic, biological, environmental or psychological factors.

Common risk factors include:

  • Family history of depression
  • Major life changes, trauma, or stress
  • Certain physical illnesses or medications, and
  • Personality traits that include low self-esteem or being overly dependent.

How can Avive help?

Avive provides integrated mental health care designed for depression – compassionate, trauma-informed and clinically led.

  • Comprehensive assessment – psychiatric review, medication reconciliation and deprescribing plans, physical and cognitive screening, and risk assessment
  • Foundations inpatient care – usually a 21-day stay to stabilise mood, optimise medications, improve sleep and energy, and build practical coping skills
  • Day programs – 8–12 weeks, small-group therapy one half-day per week to consolidate skills and maintain progress after discharge
  • Assisted therapies – where clinically appropriate, we consider additional therapies within our evidence-informed framework and after specialist review
  • Cloud Clinic telehealth – psychiatry and psychology appointments for those who prefer or require remote care, including regional and carer-constrained patients
  • Family and carer involvement – education and care planning sessions to support recovery at home, with consent.


Admissions, costs and referrals

  • Private health insurance – if you hold hospital cover, your fund may cover most inpatient costs.
  • Mental Health Waiver – for eligible patients upgrading cover, a once-in-a-lifetime psychiatric waiting period waiver may apply.
  • DVA – we welcome DVA Gold/White Card holders.
  • Self-funding – options are available.

 

Our team can check eligibility and guide you through next steps. Contact us on 1800 284 830 or by emailing help@avivehealth.com.au

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