Depression
Depression can affect anyone at any stage of life.
Depression is a significant period of negative mood or sadness that usually involves a loss of interest or enjoyment from nearly all activities.
Symptoms of depression
The symptoms of depression are different for each person. A person experiencing a depression may display a range of symptoms, including:
- low mood or sadness that lasts for at least two weeks
- low energy
- loss of interest in daily activities
- changes to eating or sleeping patterns
- loss of sex drive
- excessive crying
- headaches and nausea
- restlessness, agitation and irritability
- persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness
- difficulty concentrating and making decisions
- feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- thoughts of suicide.
Causes of depression
There is no single cause of depression. A range of biological, psychological, lifestyle and social factors can influence the development of depression, including:
- family history or genetic predisposition
- stress
- low self-esteem
- grief and loss
- major life changes
- injury, medical illness or physical health problems.
Helping someone you think may be depressed
If you think someone you know is experiencing depression, you can help by:
- letting them know you care
- being supportive – you don't need to focus on their depression; just continue to be their friend
- encouraging them to get help
- being available to listen when they're distressed.
If you are helping someone who is experiencing depression, remember to look after yourself as well. While you can support them, you're not responsible for anyone else's mental health and you should remember to enjoy your life.
Student counselling services
If you are having a personal crisis and need to speak to someone urgently, contact the UQ Counselling and Crisis line:
If you call 1300 851 998 between 8am and 4:30pm, Monday to Friday, our trained staff will connect you to the right support. Outside of these hours, a trained crisis counsellor will answer for immediate assistance.
You can also text 0488 884 115 between 4:30pm and 8am to chat with a crisis counsellor.
Book a confidential appointment with our counsellors for personal support:
Step one:
Complete the counselling intake form. This form must be completed prior to your first appointment.
Step two:
Book a counselling appointment
Note: For students at Gatton and Herston campuses, please ensure any face to face appointment is at your preferred location.
If you're having trouble booking online, contact Student Services.
Phone Student Services on 1300 275 870
Visit Student Central (Building 42, St Lucia campus) or Student Services Gatton (Level 1, N.W. Briton Administration Centre Annexe, Building 8101A)
Live chat with us (8:30am—4:30pm)
Further support
You can speak to your GP, a psychologist, psychiatrist or counsellor outside of UQ.