Depression: Mood Disorder Across Australia

Depression is a commonly experienced mood disorder across Australia. It is characterised by ‘a state of sadness, gloom and pessimistic ideation, with a loss of interest or pleasure in enjoyable activities.’ (1) Across Australia, depression is a widespread health problem. In 1997, an Australian survey showed that of all respondents, 11.6% reported a depressive disorder. (2) In contrast, the same study conducted in 2007, showed that of all respondents, 11.6% reported a depressive disorder. (3) This data indicates an increase in the prevalence of depression. Of those with depression from the findings of the 2007 survey, 14.5% of this proportion were female, and 8.8% were male. (3) Depression can affect people at all stages of the lifespan. A 2007