Depression can make life feel heavy, flat or disconnected. It is not just sadness, and it is not a sign of weakness. For some people, depression feels like tearfulness or hopelessness. For others, it feels like numbness, irritability, exhaustion, low motivation or a loss of interest in things that used to matter.
Depression can develop after stress, grief, burnout, trauma, relationship difficulties, health concerns or major life changes. Sometimes there is no single clear reason. It can also occur alongside anxiety, ADHD, autism, alcohol or drug concerns, sleep problems or trauma.
At Darlinghurst Psychologists, we work with people experiencing depression, low mood, emotional numbness, self-criticism, withdrawal, hopelessness and difficulty functioning day to day.
What depression can feel like
Depression can affect mood, motivation, sleep, appetite, concentration, energy, relationships and self-worth. You may find yourself cancelling plans, avoiding messages, struggling to get started, feeling guilty about not doing enough, or feeling like you are watching life from a distance.
Some people continue to work, study or care for others while feeling very low internally. Others find that even ordinary tasks feel difficult.
Evidence-based treatment for depression
Therapy for depression often involves understanding what is keeping you stuck and helping you gradually rebuild movement, connection and meaning.
At Darlinghurst Psychologists, treatment may include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Behavioural Activation, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Schema Therapy, compassion-focused approaches and relapse prevention planning.
Therapy may help you understand your depression, work with negative or self-critical thoughts, rebuild routines, reduce avoidance, improve relationships, process grief or trauma, and develop a plan for staying well.
How Darlinghurst Psychologists can help​
Depression often tells people they should be coping better or trying harder. We do not approach it that way. At Darlinghurst Psychologists, we aim to understand what has led you to this point and what support would be most useful.
Your treatment will be tailored to your symptoms, history, preferences and goals.
You may also find it helpful to read about Anxiety, Workplace Stress and Burnout, Grief and Adjustment, Sleep Issues or Trauma Therapy.
Or you may want to contact us to book in an initial assessment session
Common questions about depression therapy
Can therapy help with depression?
Yes. Psychological therapies such as CBT, Behavioural Activation, ACT and Schema Therapy can be helpful for many people experiencing depression.
What if I do not know why I feel depressed?
You do not need to know the cause before starting therapy. Part of therapy may involve making sense of possible contributors.
Can depression look like irritability rather than sadness?
Yes. Depression can show up as irritability, frustration, numbness, withdrawal, fatigue or reduced motivation, not only sadness.
Should I see a psychologist or a GP first?
If you would like Medicare-subsidised treatment a GP is a good starting point as they can discuss and provide a Mental Health Care Plan, medication options and physical health factors. As psychologists we can then provide therapy to work alongside your GP.
Is depression treatment short-term or long-term?
It depends on the person. Some people benefit from short-term structured therapy, while others need longer-term support, especially when depression is linked with trauma, grief or long-standing patterns.
