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Queensland Health

Mental Health
Health services > Mental health

The facts: what is depression?

The word 'depression' is often used to describe the feelings of sadness which all of us experience at some stage of our lives. It is also a term used to describe a form of mental illness called clinical depression.

Because depression is so common, it is important to understand the difference between unhappiness or sadness in daily life and the symptoms of clinical depression.

More information on depression can be found at the following websites:

Remember, you must seek professional help from a mental health professional, mental health service, your GP or health provider when problems arise.

Fact:On average,one in five people will experience depression in their lifetimeRemember, you must seek professional help from a mental health professional,mental health service,your GP or health provider when problems arise


Last Updated: 24 April 2008
Last Reviewed: 24 April 2008