Depression

New Zealand Depression

epression affects 20% of women and 10% of men in New Zealand. Find out more about the causes, symptoms, support and treatment of depression, and how those affected by depression can move towards a happy, active and fulfilling life.

• Depression and Anxiety
• Counsellors

As American researchers report a possible 'depression gene', New Zealand continues to see alarmingly high suicide rates here at home and an increase in the number of men and women experiencing depression. One in six New Zealanders experience depression at some point in their lives, most commonly between the ages of 16 and 24. Sometimes depression can be situational, meaning it has been brought on by illness, personal difficulties, bullying, abuse or other factors in your life. Often, though, there is no single cause which can be pinpointed. Remember, there is always treatment available for New Zealand depression.

How do I know if I'm depressed or just feeling low?
If you have experienced a consistently low mood, reduced pleasure in things you usually enjoy and a general loss of interest in life, for more than a month, you may be depressed. Everyone feels low at some point in their life, but if you're depressed, this feeling will not go away and can affect the way you live your life. The key signs to look for if you suspect you or someone you know is suffering from depression, are:

• Low mood and/or a feeling of hopelessness
• Reduced interest, motivation or pleasure in life for most of the time

You might also notice:

• Anxiety
• Suicidal thoughts
• Irritability
• Reduced energy levels
• Tiredness or exhaustion
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Changes in appetite
• Feelings of low self-worth
• Reduced ability to concentrate
• Reduced sex drive
• Feelings of loneliness or isolation

What help is available for depression in New Zealand?
If you feel like this picture fits you, then get help. You're not alone in dealing with depression. Avenues of support available to you include:

1. A trusted friend, partner or family member: talk to them about how you're feeling and let them know that you're needing some support.

2. Your doctor: talk to your GP or healthcare provider and ask them about your treatment options. Remember, there are ways to deal with depression that do not involve prescription drugs.

3. Helpline counseling: a call to the Depression Helpline - phone 0800 111 757 - is free in New Zealand and offers immediate support and guidance.

4. Support groups: find a local support group.

5. Mental health resources: learn more about depression to gain a better understanding of how you're feeling and what you can do to help alleviate your depression.

What can I do to treat my depression?
Treatments for depression are many and varied, depending on your condition and reaction to treatment. As well as prescription medicines, there are things you can do for yourself, with the support of friends and family. You might consider:

• Doing some physical exercise daily - this can help lift your mood and keep you from becoming more depressed. Physical activity changes the chemical balance in your brain and leads to feelings of wellbeing.
• Changing your diet - avoiding sugar and caffeine can help you beat the blues, as can getting the recommended dose of omega-3 fatty acids and essential vitamins.
• Planning your day - include things that you enjoy, mealtimes, physical activity and things you need to get done. Establishing a routine is very helpful in giving meaning to every day.
• Take things one step at a time - when things seem overwhelming, this can reduce stress. Celebrate every achievement, no matter how small!
• Get enough sleep - if you're having trouble sleeping, make sure you're relaxed before going to bed (a bath, scented oils or meditation are useful).
• Avoid drugs and alcohol - partying may seem like fun, but these substances will make your depression worse. After an initial high, alcohol and drugs have a depressive effect.

What other depression treatments are available in New Zealand?
Psychological and pharmaceutical help is readily available for mild depression. Visit your New Zealand doctor to discuss medicines that can be used to alleviate depression and anxiety. Antidepressant drug therapies can be helpful, but they don't work for everyone and are most helpful in combination with psychological treatment.

Visiting a counsellor or therapist will allow you to talk over your feelings and life circumstances. They may be able to bring you to a greater understanding of why you are feeling depressed, and offer constructive advice on how best to deal with your depression. Make sure you consult your doctor to find a qualified New Zealand counsellor or therapist.

Finally, it's important to remember that there is a way through your depression. No matter how bleak it seems, there are people who love you and will support you. Before they can help, you need to let the people around you know that you're feeling depressed. To get inspired, read the stories of people who have overcome depression – you're not alone in your experience. There are many people who have been depressed and now live happy, fulfilled lives.

Looking for more information? Find New Zealand depression products and essential oils in the NZS.com directory.

Do you want to write for NZS.com, New Zealand's top Web directory? We are looking for New Zealand writers for our unique new article writing program - whereby you can write and submit articles for our website, and you will earn 50% of the revenue from the advertising on your article's page. Check out the Article Authors homepage to apply now!

Lifestyle images from Flickr: Sadness, Yoga and Wine.