Depression Therapy in Essendon & Moonee Ponds
Depression is more than feeling sad or having a rough day. It can involve a persistent low mood, loss of interest, reduced motivation, fatigue, changes in sleep or appetite, and difficulty enjoying things that once felt meaningful.
Psychologists consulting at The Victorian Psychology Clinic provide depression therapy for adolescents and adults in Essendon, Moonee Ponds and via telehealth. Support may be helpful for people experiencing low mood, hopelessness, withdrawal, irritability, emotional numbness, self-criticism or difficulty coping with daily life.
Depression can affect thoughts, emotions, relationships, work, study and physical wellbeing. Therapy can help people better understand what may be contributing to depression, develop coping strategies, reconnect with meaningful activities and work towards change at a pace that feels manageable.
Signs and Symptoms of Depression
Depression can look different from person to person. Some people feel deeply sad or tearful, while others feel flat, numb, irritable or disconnected.
Common signs may include:
- persistent low mood, sadness, emptiness or tearfulness
- loss of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyable
- changes in appetite, weight or eating patterns
- changes in sleep, such as sleeping too much or struggling to sleep
- fatigue, low energy or feeling slowed down
- difficulty concentrating, making decisions or remembering things
- withdrawing from friends, family, work, study or usual routines
- feelings of worthlessness, guilt, shame or hopelessness
- increased irritability, frustration or emotional sensitivity
- thoughts that life feels pointless, or thoughts of death or suicide
Treatment for Depression
Depression is treatable, and many people experience improvement with the right support. Therapy can help people understand the patterns that may be maintaining depression and develop practical strategies for recovery.
Support may focus on:
- identifying negative thought patterns and self-criticism
- rebuilding routines and daily structure
- increasing meaningful or enjoyable activities over time
- improving sleep, stress management and emotional regulation
- strengthening connection with supportive people
- addressing avoidance, withdrawal or loss of motivation
- exploring life stressors, grief, trauma or relationship patterns that may be contributing to depression
For some people, medication may also form part of a broader care plan. Psychologists do not prescribe medication, but where appropriate, psychologists consulting at VPC may work collaboratively with a GP, psychiatrist or other treating professionals involved in a person’s care.
How We Can Support You
Psychologists consulting at VPC provide supportive, evidence-based therapy for people experiencing depression and mood difficulties. Therapy is tailored to each person’s circumstances, symptoms, goals and stage of recovery.
Therapy may help with:
- understanding depression symptoms and contributing factors
- developing coping strategies for low mood and emotional distress
- reducing self-criticism and unhelpful thought patterns
- rebuilding motivation, routine and daily functioning
- reconnecting with values, relationships and meaningful activities
- supporting communication with GPs, psychiatrists or other treating professionals where appropriate
If you are at immediate risk of harm, call 000 or attend your nearest emergency department. For crisis support in Australia, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.
