The document provides contact information for various rural assistance services available to those in need of help, including helplines for psychological assistance, financial assistance, family assistance, crisis support, and counseling services. It also lists some websites that provide information on issues like depression, drought, health and safety, and online counseling resources. At the end, it provides some indicators of depression and suggestions for managing stress and seeking help if feelings of depression persist.
2. Tackling depression in tough times
Stress
It’s important to note that stress is not depression. However, acute distress,
associated with tough times, can occur and may be a risk factor for depression
if it persists.
Stress Busters – Helpful Hints
Depression Indicators
• Avoid isolation – spend time with
friends and family.
• Persistent feelings of sadness
• Find positive ways to “let off
steam”. Don’t bottle up feelings.
• Try to eat well and get enough rest.
• Reduce caffeine, nicotine, alcohol
and marijuana.
• Exercise every day. It improves
well-being.
• Identify what is important and
prioritise. Learn to say “no”.
Depression is not a weakness, it’s a
serious condition for which effective
treatments are available – medical,
non-medical or a combination of both.
If you or someone you know has
some of these common symptoms of
depression and they’ve persisted for
more than two weeks, please consult
a doctor or other health professional.
• Feelings of failure, worthlessness
or guilt
• Feeling overwhelmed
• Loss of interest or pleasure
in activities
• Withdrawal from family and friends
• Frequent anger or frustration
• Lack of confidence
• Poor concentration or
indecisiveness
• Tiredness
• Sleeping problems
• Feeling sick and rundown
• Changes in appetite
• Overuse or reliance on alcohol,
prescribed or illicit drugs
With the right treatment, recovery
from depression is common.
For more information on depression,
treatments and where to get help
visit www.beyondblue.org.au
or call 1300 22 4636 (local call).