Depression
Depression is a prolonged and persistent negative mood which can colour and interfere with many aspects of life. It is characterised by feelings of sadness, disappointment, loneliness, worthlessness, excessive guilt, self-doubt and hopelessness. Everyone experiences feelings of depression at one time or another. Feeling "down" or "sad" is a normal part of being human. These feelings commonly follow loss or disappointment and usually pass within a few hours or days. Depression that becomes intense, that lasts for extended periods of time and interferes with day to day functioning is of a more serious nature. Help, support and treatment for depression can be found by seeing a professional such as a counsellor or a doctor.
See also our downloadable document: Beating the Blues.
Links
The following Australian sites offer comprehensive material on depression:
a) ABC health and well being website
b) Ybblue: A youth related section in Beyond Blue website