top of page
Andrew-room

Depression

Depression is not a sign of weakness, nor is it something you can simply 'snap out of.' It is a real medical condition that affects how you think, feel, and function.

 

Whether you are battling a sense of emptiness, struggling with motivation, or feeling isolated in your experience, our team is here to walk alongside you.

 

We offer evidence-based treatments designed not just to reduce symptoms, but to help you rebuild a life of meaning and connection.

Understanding Depression:
More than Sadness

Depression is a complex and deeply impactful mental health condition that extends far beyond occasional sadness or low mood. It is a pervasive disorder that affects the way a person thinks, feels, and functions in daily life.

 

Left untreated, depression can disrupt relationships, reduce performance at work or school, and diminish a person’s overall sense of purpose and wellbeing.

 

It's important to be aware that a major feature of clinical depression is the nature of its vicious cycle, which can make it quite difficult to emerge from. It literally auto-generates itself. Depression causes down-regulation of the brain, where it essentially slows down due to brain-fuel depletion.

Bag of fabrics

Recognising the Signs and Symptoms

While experiences of depression can vary from person to person, common symptoms often include

These symptoms may develop gradually or appear suddenly and can last for weeks, months, or even years if left unaddressed.

 

For some individuals, depression can present with physical symptoms such as headaches, digestive issues or chronic pain without a clear medical cause.

A Whole-Person Impact

Depression can affect all aspects of life—emotional, physical, social and occupational. It can create distance in relationships, reduce motivation and diminish one’s ability to meet the demands of everyday responsibilities.

Importantly, depression is not a sign of personal weakness or something that one can simply “snap out of.”

It is a real medical condition that deserves compassionate, professional care.

Patterned Pillows

Understanding the Vicious Cycle and the Role of Neuroplasticity

Whilst some people opt for SSRI and SNRI antidepressant medication to help them get out of this loop by boosting serotonin levels, this can also be achieved by environmental change (removing toxic aspects such as dysfunctional and abusive features in the lifestyle), as well as behavioural activation and changes to cognitive style.

Family Playing with Ball

Effective, Evidence-Based Treatment

The good news is that depression is highly treatable. A number of well-established, evidence-based approaches can significantly reduce symptoms and support long-term recovery.
 

Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) 

  • Helps individuals identify and challenge unhelpful thought patterns, build healthier coping strategies and reengage with meaningful activities.

Other Therapeutic Approaches

May also be beneficial depending on the individual’s needs, such as:

Medication

  • Medication, such as antidepressants, may be recommended in some cases—particularly when symptoms are moderate to severe or when therapy alone is not sufficient.

  • Medication can be a valuable tool when used in conjunction with psychological support.

You don’t have to navigate depression on your own — support is available for you, and for others you know

You Are Not Alone
 
If you or someone you care about is struggling with depression, know that help is available, and recovery is possible.
 
We offer a safe, non-judgmental space to explore your experiences and work collaboratively toward healing and well-being.
!
Widget Didn’t Load
Check your internet and refresh this page.
If that doesn’t work, contact us.

Frequently Asked Questions

Depression

An image of a homely wooden bookcase taken at the Bruce Psychology clinic in Mandurah, featuring many books from philosophy to psychology, a lamp, and antique shelf ornaments.
The Bruce Psychology Logo, featuring the symbol of an ouroboros around a psy symbol, accompanied by the byline "Become Your Potential".

We're here to help you Become Your Potential.

Clinic Opening Hours

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday
Thursday

Friday

9:00am - 5:00pm

9:00am - 5:00pm

9:00am - 5:00pm

9:00am - 6:00pm

9:00am - 5:00pm

The AFL Players Association logo
The Insurance Commission of Western Australia logo.
The Australian Psychological Society logo.
The AHPRA registered psychologist logo.
The AAPI logo.
The Medicare logo.
The NDIS logo.
  • Instagram
  • Facebook

Copyright ©️ 2026

bottom of page