Depression

Support for Depression and Mood Disorders Everyone experiences sadness from time to time. But when these feelings persist and interfere with your ability to live your life, it may signal depression or another mood disorder. At St Andrew’s Toowoomba Hospital, we’re here to support you with compassionate, expert care. What Are Mood Disorders? Mood disorders include a variety of conditions that can deeply impact your emotions and daily life. This includes depression, bipolar disorder, and dysthymia. These conditions can lead to significant challenges in how you think, feel, and act. Signs and Symptoms to Look For While symptoms can be different for everyone, they often include: • Feeling Down or Hopeless: An ongoing sense of sadness, emptiness, or despair. • Loss of Interest in Activities: Losing pleasure in things you once enjoyed. • Changes in Appetite: Eating much more or much less than usual, leading to weight changes. • Disrupted Sleep: Difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or sleeping excessively. • Low Energy: Feeling exhausted or drained, even after rest. • Trouble Concentrating: Difficulty focusing or making decisions. • Feelings of Worthlessness: Persistent self-doubt or guilt. • Thoughts of Self-Harm or Suicide: In severe cases, thoughts of harming yourself or others. In bipolar disorder, these symptoms can be interspersed with periods of heightened energy, reduced need for sleep, impulsive behaviour, and euphoria. Treatment at St Andrew’s Toowoomba Hospital We recognise that depression and mood disorders are unique to each person. Our team will work with you to create an individual treatment plan that supports your goals and needs. Your treatment options might include: • Inpatient Programs: Providing 24/7 care in a nurturing environment for those in need of more intensive support. • Neurostimulation Therapies: We offer advanced treatments such as Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) and Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) to support healing alongside traditional talk therapies. • Day Programs: Our structured Mood and Anxiety Management Program uses proven approaches, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), to help you learn effective strategies in a group setting. Why Choose Our Programs? • Understand your condition and discover healthier ways to manage it. • Learn practical skills to improve your well-being and maintain progress. • Build meaningful connections with others facing similar challenges. • Gain confidence and hope for a brighter future. Our Approach to Care • Collaborative Team: Our psychiatrists, nurses, psychologists, art therapists, social worker and allied health team membrs work closely together to create a plan tailored to you. • Holistic Care: We consider every aspect of your health — emotional, social, physical — to ensure comprehensive care. • A Safe, Compassionate Space: We’re dedicated to providing a welcoming and confidential environment where you feel heard and supported.