beyondblue
Organisation
Organisation Profile
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About
beyondblue is a national, independent, not-for-profit organisation working to address issues associated with depression, anxiety and related disorders in Australia.
beyondblue is a bipartisan initiative of the Australian, state and territory governments with a key goal of raising community awareness about depression and anxiety, and reducing stigma associated with the illness.
beyondblue works in partnership with health services, schools, workplaces, universities, media and community organisations, as well as people living with depression, to bring together their expertise around depression.
beyondblue's five priorities:
1. Increasing community awareness of depression, anxiety and related
substance misuse disorders and addressing associated stigma.
2. Providing people living with depression and their carers with information on the illness and effective treatment options and promoting their needs and experiences with policy makers and healthcare service providers.
3. Developing depression prevention and early intervention programs.
4. Improving training and support for GPs and other healthcare professionals on depression.
5. Initiating and supporting depression-related research.
www.beyondblue.org.au - Areas Of Interest Anxiety Depression Postnatal Depression
Answers contributed by beyondblue
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How can i help my brother who thinks he has OCD?
Check out the beyondblue websites, where we have specific information about the symptoms, what to look for, effective treatments for OCD. The best thing you can do at this stage is to assist him to ... read more -
My friend is depressed and won't seek help... what to do?
Can I suggest you order the free beyondblue carers guide which provides friends and family members with a step by step guide to assisting someone to get help for conditions like depression and anxiety. It ... read more -
What are some life changes that may trigger depression?
Certainly all of these things can increase your risk of depression. Adverse/ negative life events such as losing a loved one, a job, your health and or independence are some examples. Having a baby and ... read more -
Do I really still have post natal depression?
PND is technically no different to depression, it is the same condition, it is just that it gets it's own name as the event of having a baby increases the risk of developing depression at ... read more -
Is there any way to prevent postnatal depression?
The best thing to do is equip yourself with information about depression and anxiety, and monitor how you are travelling in relation to thsigns and symptoms. Beyondblue has a booklet "emotional health and wellbeing" during ... read more -
Can postnatal depression affect my child?
If a person is experiencing ongoing and/or severe depression it is likely to impact on her ability to function and the quality of interaction with her baby. Research has demonstrated that in such cases this ... read more -
Who is at risk for postnatal depression?
There are a range of factors which can put someone at risk. These include having a personal history of depression or other mental health problem (or family history), drug or alcohol misue, history of abuse ... read more -
When does postnatal depression occur after childbirth?
Technically, postnatal depression is defined as the period from one month following birth up to 12 months following birth - although it can go beyond that time if untreated. Postnatal depression is different fro the ... read more -
What percentage of women experience postnatal depression after childbirth?
Up to one in ten women (10%) experience depression during pregnancy and this increases to 16 percent in the months follow g having a baby. These are Australian statistics, which are similar to other developed ... read more -
How much anxiety is "normal" and how much is too much?
A good rule of thumb I think is that if you feel like anxiety is interfeering with you ability to function from day to day, or is impinging on your quality of life, then it's ... read more -
Do I really still have post natal depression?
Hi there, It certainly sounds as if you may be experiencing some difficulties, and some of the symptoms you describe may suggest postnatal anxiety as well as depression (these will be reflected in high scores ... read more -
How do I prevent a relapse of anxiety and depression?
It may be beneficial to see a clinical psychologist or a psychiatrist. GPs are generalists and whilst some can have varying levels of expertise and interest in different areas, mental health is clearly not always ... read more -
How can i help my depressed partner?
Like any severe, debilitating health condition, depression impacts on all areas of a persons life and ability to function from day to day. He needs to get effective treatment. This is critical for him and ... read more -
Can I still take Citalopram 30mg if pregnant?
This medication is I the class of medications that has been identified to be safe to use in pregnancy, but it is importnat to discuss this with your doctor. Can I suggest you take a ... read more -
Can I overcome social anxiety?
Certainly deep breathing and relaxation exercises are a couple of strategies that can be useful for addressing social anxiety, but there are other important aspects of treatment including cognitive therapy which can involve identifying the ... read more -
What is comorbid anxiety?
This generally means it exists with some other condition at the same time. For example depression and anxiety often exist together, hence they are impacting on the person and both conditions impacting on each other. ... read more -
How effective is cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) in treating agoraphobia?
Agree with above post. CBT can be very helpful to teach you strategies to overcome the overwhelming anxiety, and plays a vital role in treatment and recovery for agoraphobia. You can even find effective CBT ... read more -
How do I prevent a relapse of anxiety and depression?
Yes, relapses do happen, and reducing the risk of relapse is always a challenge for people living with conditions like depression and anxiety. Each time someone feels that things are getting overwhelming people often recall ... read more -
Is there a relationship between depression and alcoholism?
In a word, yes. Certainly drinking high quantities of alcohol can have a negative impact on both physical and mental health. Alcohol has a depressant effect. In addition, many people experiencing depression may tend to ... read more -
Should i be on medication for my depression and what medication is best?
Both talking therapies and medications can be helpful. The best treatment for you will depend on factors such as your personal history and the severity of your depression. A good GP can assist with this, ... read more -
How can I help someone suffering from postnatal depression?
Having helpful family members and friends can make recovering from postnatal depression (PND) easier. While relatives and friends won't be able to make the woman's PND go away, offering support can be helpful. Here are ... read more -
What are the ways that a woman with postnatal depression can help herself feel better?
There are many ways that a woman with PND can help herself feel better. Here are some suggestions: Seek help and treatment from a doctor or other qualified health professional. Restrict visitors when feeling unwell, ... read more -
What are the signs and symptoms of postnatal depression?
Postnatal depression has the same signs and symptoms as depression experienced by men and women who have not just become mothers. These common behaviours include: moodiness that is out of character increased irritability and frustration ... read more -
How is postnatal depression treated?
There are a range of effective treatments and helpful services for managing PND. The earlier a woman seeks help, the faster she can recover. The type of treatment will vary according to the individual and ... read more -
What causes postnatal depression?
Like depression which occurs at any other time, PND doesn't have one definite cause - but it's likely to result from a combination of factors. A mixture of physical, biological and hormonal factors seem to ... read more -
What is antenatal and postnatal depression?
Adjusting to life as a mother can be difficult. In fact, for many women, having a baby is the most significant life-changing event they will ever experience. Adjusting to this major life change, as well ... read more -
How can the symptoms of anxiety be reduced and managed?
There are many ways that a person with an anxiety disorder can reduce the symptoms and manage their illness. Postpone major life changes When feeling stressed or anxious, it's not a good idea to move ... read more -
What is social phobias or social anxiety?
When a person has a phobia, they feel very fearful about particular objects or situations. Social phobia is a common phobia which is fear of social situations such as parties and meetings. There are other ... read more -
What are panic attacks?
A panic attack is an intense feeling of anxiety that seems like it cannot be bought under control. Panic attacks can include short bursts of the following: feelings of dread e.g. that something bad is ... read more -
What causes anxiety disorders?
Anxiety disorder can be caused by a range of factors. 1. Family history People who experience an anxiety disorder often have a history of mental health problems in their family. 2. Environmental factors Stressful events ... read more -
What are the symptoms of anxiety disorder?
The symptoms of anxiety disorders may sometimes be ignored, as they often develop gradually over time. Given that we all experience some anxiety, it can sometimes be hard to know how much is too much. ... read more -
What are the different types of anxiety disorders?
There are many types of anxiety disorders including: Generalised Anxiety Disorder (GAD) Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Phobia Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Panic Disorder read more -
How common are anxiety disorders?
Anxiety disorders are the most common mental disorders in Australia. Nearly one in 7 people will experience some type of anxiety disorder in any one year - around one in 6 women and one in ... read more -
What is anxiety?
While everyone feels anxious from time to time, some people experience these feelings so often and/or so strongly that it can affect their everyday lives. Often people confuse anxiety disorders with stress. Stress is a ... read more -
What are the signs and symptoms of depression?
If you notice any behavioural changes that last for more than two weeks in family members or friends, then it is worth asking if the person may be depressed. Common behaviour associated with depression includes: ... read more -
What tests detect if a person has depression?
beyondblue have some simple checklists that are quick, easy and confidential. These questions are designed to help you reflect on your situation or that of someone close to you. They will not provide a diagnosis ... read more -
What are the side effects of medications prescribed for depression?
Like with any medication, some people who take antidepressants to treat their depression also experience side-effects. Many of these side-effects are short-lived and well tolerated; however, people who take antidepressants and experience any of these ... read more -
What causes depression?
Most people assume that depression is caused simply by recent personal difficulties. Depression however, is often caused by the mix of recent events and other longer-term or personal risk factors such as genetics. Research indicates ... read more -
What is depression?
Depression is one of the most common of all mental health problems. One in five people experience depression at some stage of their lives. Depression is more than just a low mood, while we all ... read more -
How do antidepressants work?
Antidepressants are drugs that are used to treat depression and can be prescribed only by a doctor. Research shows that more severe forms of depression are associated with specific changes in the brain, including changes ... read more -
Hi has anyone used luvox antidepressants..? I have just started on them today & need some reassurance.
There been some great advice to your posting Kiwi33. Remember, the antidepressants around today are safe, effective and not addictive. You can monitor your symptoms and how you are travelling and check in with your ... read more -
I have been struggling with depression and anxiety for most of my 28 year old life
Hi Sad girl, It sounds like the meidication is not really working for you. Can I suggest you go back to your health professional and discuss this and talk about the range of symptoms you ... read more -
I've suffered from severe depression for the past eight yrs, I have also since been diagnosed with post traumatic stress disorder and general anxiety disorder.
Hi Cooper, As suggested above, hospitals are places for people who may need ongoing moitoring to get the medical treatment right, and are safe places for people who may be at risk of hurting themselves. ... read more -
Any deas to help for my depressed partner and myself?
Hi faitforus, I think some relationship counselling could be useful. I would try and keep a note of the times when his behaviour changes, not down what is the context, what is going on for ... read more -
Share your experiences in the Depression Community
Hi there, Can I suggest you get a free copy of the beyondblue guide for carers via the beyondblue website or info line? It is a fantastic step by step guide which can assist you ... read more -
Any deas to help for my depressed partner and myself?
Hi faithforus. Your husband is very lucky to have you and it's great that you have the understanding that this is part of the depression that is causing him to be this way. It is ... read more -
Have you been through something like this?
Hi Miss teach, Wow you have been through a really difficult time with a whole raft of stressors placed upon you and as could be expected they have taken their toll. Just like physical health ... read more -
I am 26 yr old who has been struggling with depression. Anyone out there that has ideas how to help me please do?
That's great advice Lisa. Sometimes when we keep tiptoing around people they dont get feedback about the impact of their behaviour on others and so have no reason to look at themselves or question themselves ... read more -
Starting this new tablet for depression - Mirtazapine 30mg ...please help
Hi B, Yes this is correct, antidepressants usually take at least a couple of weeks to take effect and it may be a month before you will really start getting the full benefits, but you ... read more -
How do you cope with your adult children fighting
Hi Ruth, Unfortunately, not everything is within our control. Having two adult children who fight constantly is not doubt distressing for you, and whilst you may try to mediate the situation for a while or ... read more -
Husband has been to 2 GPs about his Depresssion?
Hi Marie-Louise, It certainly does sound as though your husband may have depression, the classic physical symptoms including sleep problems, feeling low, and losing interest in activities he once enjoyed is also suggestive of depression. ... read more -
Coping at work when you're anxious
Hi Ashleigh, The thoughts and feelings you describe are very typical for someone who is experiencing an anxiety disorder. When a persona has an anxiety disorder, negative or catastrophic thoughts can come into your mind ... read more -
Did you know that anxiety is the most common mental health problem, yet most people don't get help?
Hi Jamie, There are some excellent, effective treatments for anxiety disorders including panic disorder and agoraphobia. Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) is an excellent treatment and it works by addressing your thinking and in particular teaching ... read more -
I am 26 and have battled with depression as long as I can remember
Hi Lisa, There are a couple of different types of medications (we call them classes) that can be used for anxiety. One group called Benzodiazapines should only be used under the guideance of a psychiatrist ... read more -
I am 26 and have battled with depression as long as I can remember
Hi Kirsten, One of the biggest risk factors for postnatal depression is having a personal history of depression, so it is not uncommon if you think you may havehad depression years ago, and then the ... read more -
St John's Wort and high blood pressure
Hi Alex, yes it is true that St John's Wort interacts with many prescription medications, either affecting how they work, or in some instances producing serious side effects. There are a number of mendications (eg ... read more
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