Where to seek help

A good first place to start in getting help is to visit your local general practitioner (GP). Let him or her know if you think you might have depression or bipolar disorder. Your GP will either conduct an assessment of you, or refer you to someone else, such as a psychiatrist or a psychologist.

If you have depression, your GP may recommend some psychological intervention, such as cognitive behaviour therapy or interpersonal therapy, and might prescribe antidepressant medication to relieve some of the symptoms of depression.

Because mental health problems are common issues in general practice these days, many GPs are used to dealing with depression and other mental health problems. Some take a special interest in mental health issues and undergo additional training in the area. If you don't feel comfortable talking to your own GP, find another one with whom you do feel comfortable. It is important that you feel comfortable talking about how you are feeling with your GP so they have as much information to help you as possible.

If you are having trouble tracking down such a GP, you could telephone general practices in your area to find out whether any doctors in that practice have a particularly strong interest in mental health and, if so, whether they are taking on new patients. (Ask to speak to the practice manager.)

beyondblue has a national listing of health practitioners with an interest and/or expertise in the treatment of depression and anxiety. This list is searchable by suburb and so is a useful way of finding practitioners in your local area.

Psychologists, psychiatrists and counsellors are other professionals trained to provide help for depression and mood disorders. You will need a referral from your GP to see a psychiatrist (and this will either eliminate or reduce costs).

Social workers, occupational therapists and registered nurses are also trained in mental health.