Teenagers, adults & new parents
Depression
Depression is more than a few bad days. It's a lasting change in mood, energy and interest that makes ordinary life harder: work, school, relationships, looking after yourself. It's common, treatable, and support is available.
Types of depression
Depression takes several forms, which differ in how long it lasts and when it happens.
Major depressive disorder
Low mood or loss of interest most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks, with changes in sleep, appetite, energy and concentration. It can happen once or come back over time. It is the most common form of depression.
Persistent depressive disorder
A milder but long-lasting low mood, present most days for two years or more in adults, or one year in young people. Because it lasts so long, people often think it is just their personality. It used to be called dysthymia.
Depression in teenagers
In young people, depression often shows as irritability, anger or withdrawal rather than sadness, with falling school results, pulling away from friends or sleeping much more. It is easy to mistake for a normal phase.
Depression in pregnancy and after birth
Depression that begins during pregnancy or in the year after a baby is born. It is common, and it is not a sign of being a bad parent. See Perinatal mental health.
Depression in bipolar disorder
Some depression is part of bipolar disorder, where there have also been periods of unusually high or irritable mood. This matters because the treatment is different. See Bipolar disorder.
Signs to look for
- Low or flat mood most days for two weeks or more
- Losing interest in things you used to enjoy
- Sleeping much more or much less than usual
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Tiredness and low energy
- Trouble concentrating or making decisions
- Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- Thoughts of death or suicide
Assessment
At the first appointment we talk through how you've been feeling, when it started, your physical health, medications, and what's happening in your life. Dr Stanganelli may ask your GP for blood tests to rule out physical causes such as thyroid problems. You'll leave with a clear explanation and a plan.
Treatment
Dr Stanganelli assesses, diagnoses, prescribes where it helps, and coordinates your care with your GP, psychologist and school.
- Psychological therapy, with your psychologist or one Dr Stanganelli can refer you to
- Antidepressant medication where it will help, with regular review
- Practical support with sleep, activity and routine
- Involving a partner or family when that helps recovery
Getting started
Ask your GP or paediatrician for a referral to Dr Stanganelli, then email it to appointments@stanganelli.com.au. Or post it to PO Box 5571, Mackay QLD 4740. All referrals are reviewed and assessed by Dr Stanganelli to determine suitability for the practice. Submission of a referral does not guarantee acceptance or an appointment. If your referral is accepted, we'll contact you with a time in Mackay, Brisbane or by telehealth, usually in under 4 weeks. If we can't accept a referral, we'll let the referring doctor or the patient know.