Puberty

Puberty happens gradually and marks the start of the body developing from a child into an adult. Girls turning into women and boys turning into men. Many changes happen during this time.

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Puberty for boys

Learn about the complex changes that occurs to a boy when he becomes a young man.

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Puberty for girls

Learn about the complex physical and emotional changes that occurs to a girl when she becomes a young woman.

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Depression in children

If your child has symptoms of depression, it's best to seek professional help. Find out more about depression and children.

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Depression in teenagers

One in five children and adolescents is affected by mental health problems and disorders. Find out about depression and young people.

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Depression

Depression is a common condition, affecting how you feel, think and act. It’s often treatable and with a doctor’s support, your depression will likely improve.

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Types of depression

Depression (also known as major depression, or clinical depression) is a medical condition where people experience long and intense periods of low mood which affects their ability to function.

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Melancholia (depression with melancholic features)

Melancholia is a type of depression, sometimes referred to as melancholic depression. Read more about the symptoms, diagnosis and treatment here.

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All about depression

Depression is a common mental illness. Learn more about the different types, how to deal with depression and to care for someone suffering from the condition.

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Just diagnosed with depression

Depression is a real illness with real symptoms. Find out more about what to do next when you just diagnosed with depression.

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How to help someone with depression

It's not easy to know how to help someone with depression. Learn to recognise the signs, how to talk to someone with depression and where to get help.

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How to deal with depression

Telling people you have depression and getting help is not easy, here's some ways to manage your illness. Find out more about dealing with depression.

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Depression and older people

Depression in adults over 65 can include unexplained physical symptoms, memory loss, and various behavioural changes. This page can help you diagnose if an older person may be suffering from depression.

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Signs of depression in men

Men don't like to admit when they are under stress or feeling depressed. Find out how to get them to open up.

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Feeling restless

Feeling restless affects you and your relationships with others. Try these tips to help you cope with feelings of restlessness or irritability.

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Feeling worthless

Focusing on the negative can make you feel as though everything about your life is wrong. Learn how to focus on positives and when to ask for help.

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Teenagers' health

Growing up to a young adult can be exciting, but can also be tough for a lot of teenagers. Find out what to expect during puberty, and learn about health issues including acne, eating disorders, glandular fever and more.

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Types of psychosis

Psychosis is often a symptom of another underlying psychiatric problem. It can be caused by mental illnesses such as schizophrenia or severe depression.

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Older people and mental health

Older people can have mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, which are often caused by triggers such as grief, loss or illness.

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Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that only appears at certain times of the year. Learn how treatment can make a difference.

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Sadness

We all feel down sometimes, but if feelings of sadness or worry last more than 2 weeks, it may be a sign of depression or other mental condition.

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Unpleasant thoughts

If you are feeling down or are depressed, it may mean you are very critical of yourself and have become focused on the negative aspects of your life.

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Mental health disorders

Mental health disorder describes a wide range of disorders such as depression, anxiety, stress, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Learn what to do when diagnosed.

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How exercise is changing lives

Experts now recommend that physical activity be prescribed for cancer patients. Here's how exercise plays a surprising role in health conditions like cancer and depression.

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Mental health helplines

Information about key groups that can help with mental health problems, including healthdirect partners and leading Australian health organisations.

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Types of mental illness

There are nearly 300 mental disorders listed in the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders). This is a handbook used by health professionals to help identify and diagnose mental illness.

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Mental illness

One in 5 Australians will experience a mental illness in any given year. Here is information on causes and symptoms of mental illness, and where to find help.

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Nine signs of mental health issues

Can you spot the difference between a bad mood and something more serious? These 9 signs could point to a mental health issue in someone you love.

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The health problems facing Australian men today

From androgen deficiency to erectile dysfunction, here's a round-up of the conditions and symptoms Australian men (and their partners) should look out for.

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Children's medicines

Children don't always need medicine to treat illnesses. But if you do need to give your child medicine, here are some useful tips.

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