Depression

Depression is one of the most common mental health problems, with one in five people likely to experience depression at some stage of their lives. Around one million Australian adults and 100,000 young people live with depression each year. Depression is more than just a low mood - it's a serious illness. While we all feel sad, moody or low from time to time, some people experience these feelings intensely, for long periods of time and often without reason. People with depression find it hard to function every day and may be reluctant to participate in activities they once enjoyed. The diagnosis of a major depressive disorder is based on behavioural analysis as described by the individual or friends and family, and a mental health examination. The most common time of onset is between the ages of 30 and 40 years, with a later peak between 50 and 60 years. Major depression is reported about twice as frequently in women as in men, although men are at higher risk for committing suicide.

This disease is being researched in the following projects:

Research Projects