Life can be challenging. Between work pressures, family responsibilities, and the constant pace of change in the world, many of us feel stretched thin. If you’ve been feeling flat, unmotivated, or disconnected, you’re not alone.
At Empowerment Psychology, we understand that depression can affect anyone — and that it can be difficult to tell when feeling low turns into something more serious. The good news is that depression is treatable, and with the right support, recovery is absolutely possible.
What Is Depression?
Depression is more than just feeling sad or “down.” It can affect how you think, feel, and act — changing your energy levels, motivation, sleep, appetite, and relationships. For some, it feels like emotional numbness or fatigue; for others, it’s a heavy sadness or loss of interest in things that used to bring joy.
Depression is one of the most common mental-health conditions in Aotearoa New Zealand — but it’s also one of the most treatable. Recognising the signs early and reaching out for help can make a big difference.
How Common Is Depression in New Zealand?
The numbers show just how widespread depression is in our communities:
-
1 in 7 young people will experience depression before turning 24
-
1 in 8 men will experience depression
-
1 in 5 women will experience depression
-
1 in 4 New Zealanders will experience anxiety
-
Around 1 in 5 people will experience both depression and anxiety at the same time
Globally, hundreds of millions of people experience depression each year, making it one of the leading causes of disability. But it’s important to remember — depression is treatable, and help is available.
Common Symptoms of Depression
Depression can look different for everyone, but you may notice some of these symptoms:
-
Persistent low or empty mood
-
Loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities
-
Changes in appetite or sleep
-
Fatigue or loss of energy
-
Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
-
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
-
Slowed movements or restlessness noticeable to others
-
Thoughts of death or suicide
If you experience five or more of these symptoms for two weeks or longer, it may be time to reach out for professional support.
Treatment for Depression
The most important thing to know is that depression is highly treatable.
At Empowerment Psychology, our team of compassionate and experienced psychologists use evidence-based approaches to help you feel better and build resilience.
Therapies we offer include:
-
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) – understanding and reshaping unhelpful thought patterns
-
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) – learning to respond with compassion and flexibility
-
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) – an evidence-based therapy for processing trauma, distressing memories, and negative beliefs that may contribute to depression
-
Mindfulness-based therapy – supporting emotional regulation and calm
-
Lifestyle support – improving sleep, movement, and nutrition to enhance wellbeing
We take a holistic and personalised approach, tailoring your therapy to your unique needs and life context.
Learn more about our Therapy Services or Meet Our Team.
If You Are in Crisis
If you are in immediate danger or need urgent help, please call 111 or go to your nearest hospital emergency department (ED).
You can also contact your local Mental Health Crisis Team — contact details can be found here:
https://mentalhealth.org.nz/help
If you need someone to talk to right now, these free and confidential helplines are available 24/7:
-
Need to Talk? Call or text 1737
-
Depression Helpline: 0800 111 757 or text 4202
-
Lifeline: 0800 543 354 or text 4357
-
Youthline: 0800 376 633 or text 234
Dr Missy Wolfman, Director of Empowerment Psychology, previously volunteered with Youthline and Lifeline for eight years — and knows firsthand how warm, understanding, and skilled their teams are.
There Is Always Hope
When you’re in the midst of depression, it can feel like there’s no way forward. But recovery is always possible. As author John Green reminds us:
“There is always hope, even when your brain tells you there isn’t.”
You don’t have to face this alone. With the right support, people can and do recover — finding joy, purpose, and connection again.
Take the First Step
If you’ve been feeling low for a while and it’s affecting your mood, energy, or relationships, reaching out for help is an important first step.
At Empowerment Psychology, we offer therapy for depression, anxiety, and stress, as well as ADHD and autism assessments. Our registered clinical psychologists provide evidence-based, compassionate care both in-person (Auckland) and online across New Zealand.
Book an appointment or learn more: www.empowerment-psychology.com
Email: