Mood disorders are a group of mental health conditions marked by disturbances in emotional state, involving extended periods of low mood (depression) and/or episodes of excessively elevated mood (mania). These conditions affect how a person thinks, feels, and functions in daily life.

Depression

Depression is a common but serious mental health condition where symptoms persist for at least two weeks or longer. Key features include:

• Persistent sadness or low mood
• Loss of interest or pleasure in previously enjoyable activities
• Changes in sleep and appetite
• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Feelings of worthlessness or hopelessness

Depression can significantly impact work, study, relationships, and overall wellbeing if left untreated.

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is characterised by cycles of extreme low and high moods. Episodes can vary widely, lasting from 3–6 months to occurring only every few years. Symptoms often first emerge in early adulthood.

• Depressive episodes resemble symptoms of depression.
• Manic episodes may include elevated mood, overactivity, rapid speech, decreased need for sleep, impulsive behaviour, or irritability.

In Australia, bipolar disorder affects about 1.3% of the population each year.

Impact

Both depression and bipolar disorder can interfere with daily functioning, affecting work, study, relationships, and quality of life. However, with the right treatment and support, many people manage symptoms and lead fulfilling lives.

Trauma

Trauma is the psychological and emotional response to a deeply distressing or disturbing event. Such events can overwhelm a person’s ability to cope, disrupt self-regulation, and create intense feelings of helplessness.

Most people will experience a potentially traumatic event at some point in their lives, and many recover naturally over time with social support and resilience. However, for some, trauma—especially if severe or repeated—can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Causes of Trauma

Traumatic experiences can arise from events such as:

• Loss of control or betrayal
• Abuse of power
• Pain or profound loss
• Exposure to actual or threatened death or serious injury
• Sexual or physical violence

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

PTSD is a condition that may develop after trauma and is associated with a range of emotional and physical symptoms, including:

• Emotional distress such as fear, anger, denial, or shame
• Reliving the trauma through flashbacks or intrusive memories
• Avoidance of reminders associated with the event
• Insomnia and frequent nightmares
• Negative thoughts and low mood
• Agitation, irritability, and hypervigilance (being “on edge”)

Recovery and Support

While trauma can deeply affect a person’s sense of safety and wellbeing, healing is possible. Recovery is often supported by:

• Access to mental health professionals
• Social connections and supportive relationships
• Healthy coping strategies and self-care

Trauma is the response to a deeply distressing or disturbing event that overwhelms an individual’s ability to cope, diminishes their ability to self-regulate, and causes intense feelings of helplessness.  In our lifetime, we are likely to experience a potentially traumatic life event, although most do recover with time and social support.  However, for some people, the experience of trauma, or repeated exposure to trauma can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Traumatic events can include loss of control, betrayal, abuse of power, pain, and loss, exposure to actual or threatened death, serious injury, and sexual or physical violence.  Emotional signs of PTSD are fear, anger, denial, or shame.  Individuals affected also show symptoms of reliving the trauma, avoidance of reminders of the trauma, insomnia, nightmares, negative thoughts and low mood, agitation, and hypervigilance.

Addiction is a complex condition manifested by compulsive substance use and harmful behaviours leading to negative consequences such as losses to the relationship, employment, physical and mental health.  Individuals can develop addictions to alcohol, recreation and stimulant drugs, prescription medication (e.g., opioids, sedatives), gambling and gaming.

They depend on these substances and compulsive behaviours in the short term to increase pleasure, relieve stress, enhance performance, or decrease emotional/physical pain.  However, longer-term consequences include impaired control (increased craving), social and financial problems, risky behaviour, tolerance and comorbid mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects both children and adults. It is characterised by difficulties with attention, concentration, impulsivity, and/or hyperactivity. While symptoms typically begin in childhood, ADHD often continues into adulthood, though the way it presents can change across the lifespan.

ADHD in Children and Adolescents

In children and teens, ADHD may be identified by:

• Difficulty paying attention or following instructions
• Struggling to finish tasks or schoolwork
• Making frequent careless mistakes
• Forgetfulness and disorganisation
• Excessive talking or interrupting others
• Trouble sitting still or acting as if “on the go”

In Australia, around 7.4% of children and adolescents are estimated to have ADHD. Boys are diagnosed about twice as often as girls, though this gap may reflect differences in recognition rather than actual prevalence.

ADHD in Adults

ADHD often persists into adulthood, but symptoms can appear differently:

• Difficulty managing time, planning, or staying organised
• Forgetting appointments, deadlines, or tasks
• Restlessness or feeling unable to relax
• Impulsivity in decision-making, spending, or relationships
• Struggles with maintaining work performance or consistent study habits
• Higher risk of co-occurring mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, or substance use disorders

Many adults remain undiagnosed until later in life, especially if symptoms were overlooked in childhood.

ADHD in Females

ADHD in girls and women often presents less obviously than in males and is therefore underdiagnosed. Females are more likely to:

• Show inattentive symptoms (daydreaming, forgetfulness, disorganisation) rather than overt hyperactivity
• Experience internalising behaviours such as anxiety, low self-esteem, and emotional sensitivity
• Mask symptoms to fit social expectations, which can delay diagnosis
• Experience worsening symptoms around hormonal changes (e.g., puberty, premenstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause)

Recognising these gender differences is essential for timely diagnosis and appropriate support.

Impact of ADHD

ADHD can affect many aspects of life, including:

• Academic achievement and work performance
• Relationships and social functioning
• Emotional wellbeing and self-esteem
• Daily responsibilities such as money management or household organisation

With the right support, strategies, and treatment, people with ADHD can thrive and achieve their goals.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), commonly referred to as autism, is a neurodevelopmental condition that affects how a person communicates, interacts socially, and processes the world around them. Autism exists on a spectrum, meaning that it varies widely in its presentation and support needs from one individual to another.

Autism is not an illness to be “cured” but a different way of experiencing and engaging with the world. With understanding, acceptance, and the right supports, autistic individuals can thrive in education, employment, relationships, and community life.

Autism in Children

Signs of autism usually appear in early childhood, often before the age of three. Common features may include:

• Differences in social communication (e.g., limited eye contact, difficulties with back-and-forth conversation)
• Repetitive behaviours or intense interests (sometimes called “special interests”)
• Preference for routines and distress at changes
• Differences in play (e.g., preference for solitary play, lining up toys)
• Sensory sensitivities (e.g., being very sensitive to light, noise, textures, or touch)

Early recognition and support can help children develop important life and social skills, while also reducing stress for families.

Autism in Adults

Many autistic adults were not diagnosed in childhood, particularly those who developed coping strategies or whose presentation did not fit traditional diagnostic expectations. Common features in adulthood include:

• Challenges with social relationships and workplace communication
• Difficulty with transitions, flexibility, and managing unexpected changes
• Strong focus on specific interests or areas of expertise
• Ongoing sensory sensitivities
• Higher likelihood of co-occurring conditions such as anxiety, depression, or ADHD

Receiving a diagnosis in adulthood can bring clarity, self-understanding, and access to tailored supports.

Autism in Females

Historically, autism has been underdiagnosed in girls and women due to different patterns of presentation. Females are more likely to:

• Mask or camouflage their difficulties by copying others’ behaviour
• Be more socially motivated but still experience challenges in peer relationships
• Have “special interests” that appear socially typical (e.g., celebrities, animals, books), making them less noticeable
• Internalise distress, leading to higher rates of anxiety, depression, and eating disorders
• Be diagnosed later in life compared to males

Greater awareness of these differences is helping more girls and women receive timely diagnoses and support

Stress is the body’s natural response to demands or pressures that exceed a person’s perceived ability to cope. It can arise from many aspects of life, including work, study, relationships, finances, or major life changes.

Everyone experiences stress differently. What feels overwhelming to one person may feel manageable to another. How we experience stress often depends on our attitude, coping skills, resilience, and available supports.

When Stress Becomes a Problem

Short-term stress can sometimes be helpful, motivating us to take action or stay alert. However, when stress is chronic or overwhelming, it can negatively affect both mental and physical health.

Symptoms of Stress

Physical symptoms may include:

• Fatigue and low energy
• Sleep difficulties or insomnia
• Heart palpitations or chest tightness
• Headaches or migraines
• Muscle tension, aches, or pains
• High blood pressure
• Digestive issues

Psychological and emotional signs may include:

• Feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or fearful
• Irritability, anger, or frustration
• Persistent worry or racing thoughts
• Difficulty concentrating or poor memory
• Feelings of helplessness or loss of control

Impact of Ongoing Stress

If left unmanaged, chronic stress increases the risk of:

• Mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and burnout
• Physical health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and weakened immune function
• Difficulties with work or study performance
• Strained relationships
• Reduced motivation to maintain healthy routines (e.g., exercise, nutrition, sleep)

Managing Stress

Effective ways to reduce and manage stress may include:

• Building healthy coping strategies such as regular exercise, mindfulness, or relaxation practices
• Seeking social support from friends, family, or colleagues
• Establishing healthy routines around sleep, diet, and time management
• Accessing professional support from a GP, psychologist, or counsellor when needed

Sleep is essential for both physical and mental health, but what counts as a “good night’s sleep” varies greatly between individuals. Genetics, lifestyle, environment, and psychological factors all play a role in determining sleep quality.

One of the most common sleep disorders is insomnia, which can affect people of all ages.

What is Insomnia?

Insomnia involves difficulty with:

• Falling asleep (sleep onset)
• Staying asleep (sleep maintenance)
• Waking too early and being unable to return to sleep

This occurs despite having the opportunity to sleep, and it results in significant impairment during the day.

Effects of Insomnia

People with insomnia may experience:

• Persistent fatigue and low energy
• Poor concentration, attention, and memory
• Reduced performance at work, school, or other activities
• Irritability, low mood, or anxiety
• Headaches and physical tension
• Ongoing worry about sleep itself

Causes and Triggers

Research shows that insomnia can be triggered or worsened by:

• Stress, worry, or major life events
• Changes in routine (e.g., travel, shift work, parenting demands)
• Lifestyle factors such as caffeine, alcohol, or lack of exercise
• Medical conditions including obesity and chronic pain
• Other sleep disorders such as restless legs syndrome or sleep apnoea
• Mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression

Sleep Difficulties in Children and Adolescents

Sleep problems are common in childhood and adolescence, and while many are temporary, some can develop into persistent sleep disorders that impact health, learning, and behaviour.

Common Sleep Issues in Children

• Bedtime resistance: refusing to go to bed or delaying sleep
• Night-time awakenings: waking frequently and needing comfort to return to sleep
• Night terrors: sudden episodes of intense fear or screaming during sleep, often with no memory afterward
• Sleepwalking: rising from bed and walking around during deep sleep
• Restless sleep: tossing, turning, or frequent movement that disrupts rest
• Insomnia in children: difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, often linked to anxiety, overstimulation, or poor sleep routines

Adolescents and Sleep

Adolescents often experience delayed sleep phase, meaning their natural body clock shifts later, leading to staying up late and struggling with early school times. This can result in:

• Daytime fatigue
• Poor concentration at school
• Increased risk of mood difficulties and irritability

Managing Sleep Problems

Treatment depends on the cause, but approaches may include:

• Healthy sleep routines: consistent bedtimes, reduced screen time before bed, creating a calm sleep environment
• Cognitive-behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-I): evidence-based therapy focusing on changing unhelpful thoughts and behaviours around sleep
• Addressing underlying conditions: treating mental health issues, medical conditions, or other sleep disorders
• Parental guidance for children: setting consistent routines, reducing stimulating activities before bedtime, and addressing anxiety or behavioural factors that affect sleep

Our psychologists provide comprehensive assessments to support individuals and families in understanding mental health, learning, and neurodevelopmental needs. We assess both children and adults, recognising that these difficulties can present across the lifespan.

Neurodevelopmental Assessments

We conduct detailed assessments for neurodevelopmental differences, including:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
• Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

These assessments are tailored for children, adolescents, and adults, helping individuals and families better understand strengths, challenges, and support needs.

Learning and Cognitive Assessments

We also provide comprehensive assessments to evaluate learning and cognitive functioning, including:

• Psycho-educational assessments (for school readiness, learning difficulties, or giftedness)
• Specific Learning Disorders (e.g., reading, writing, mathematics)
• Intellectual functioning and cognitive strengths and weaknesses
• Assessments for workplace, academic, or daily living support needs

Paediatric and Family-Focused Assessments

For children and families, we offer assessments, consultation, and guidance for:

• Emotional and behavioural concerns
• Parenting support and family adjustment
• Difficulties engaging in school, home, or community environment