Anxiety, Depression and Mood Disorder 

Anxiety, depression and other mood disorders are among the most common reasons children, adolescents and adults seek help from a psychologist. At BNC, our psychologists and accredited mental health social worker use evidence-based, multimodal assessment and treatment tailored to the person's age, presentation and circumstances — available in person at our Doncaster clinic or by Telehealth (Zoom).

Understanding Anxiety and Mood Disorders

Signs of Anxiety

Anxiety disorders include generalised anxiety, panic disorder, social anxiety, specific phobias and health anxiety. Common signs include persistent or excessive worry, irritability, difficulty concentrating, avoidance of feared situations, and physical symptoms such as a racing heart, muscle tension, restlessness, and sleep disturbance.

Signs of Depression and Low Mood

Depression and other mood disorders can affect mood, energy, motivation, sleep, concentration and self-worth. Common signs include persistent sadness or emptiness, loss of interest in activities once enjoyed, fatigue, changes in appetite or sleep, difficulty concentrating, and feelings of worthlessness or guilt.

If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of suicide or self-harm, please contact Lifeline on 13 11 14, or call 000 in an emergency.

Anxiety, Depression and Sleep in Children and Adolescents

Anxiety and low mood can look different in children and teenagers than in adults. Common presentations include needing frequent reassurance, irritability or anger, physical complaints such as headaches or stomach aches, school avoidance, changes in sleep (difficulty settling, nightmares, or early waking), and withdrawal from friends or activities. Sleep difficulties frequently occur alongside childhood anxiety and depression, and addressing sleep is often an important part of treatment.

Early assessment and support can make a significant difference to a child's wellbeing, family life and school functioning — parenting-focused strategies alongside direct therapy with the child are often the most effective approach.

How BNC Assesses and Treats Anxiety, Depression and Mood Disorders

Treatment is tailored to the individual and typically draws on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), the most researched and evidence-based approach for anxiety and depression, together with Behavioural Activation, graded exposure, relaxation and mindfulness-based strategies, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and family or parenting-focused interventions where relevant. Where nutritional or lifestyle factors may be contributing, these are considered as part of a broader, multimodal treatment plan.

You can access support at BNC through referrals from parents, carers, GPs, schools, or other health professionals. With a referral and Mental Health Care Plan (MHCP) from your GP, or a referral from a paediatrician or psychiatrist, you may be eligible for Medicare rebates for up to 10 sessions per calendar year. Rebates may also be available through your private health fund — check with your insurer for details.

For general counselling support beyond anxiety and mood concerns, see our Mental Health Counselling page.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between everyday worry and an anxiety disorder?+
Everyday worry tends to be short-lived and tied to a specific event. An anxiety disorder involves worry that is excessive, persistent, difficult to control, and interferes with daily life, relationships, school or work — often alongside physical symptoms like a racing heart or disrupted sleep.
What are the signs of depression in children and teenagers?+
In children and teens, depression can look like irritability or anger rather than obvious sadness, along with withdrawal from friends and activities, physical complaints (headaches, stomach aches), changes in sleep or appetite, and a drop in school performance.
Can anxiety and depression occur together?+
Yes. Anxiety and depression frequently co-occur, and sleep difficulties are common alongside both. Assessment at BNC looks at the full picture so treatment can address all of the concerns contributing to how a person is feeling.
Do children outgrow anxiety, or does it need treatment?+
Some mild worries are a normal part of development, but anxiety that is persistent, intense, or interferes with school, sleep or friendships is unlikely to simply resolve on its own and generally benefits from professional support.
Is Telehealth available for anxiety and mood concerns?+
Yes. Assessment and therapy for anxiety, depression and mood disorders are available either in person at our Doncaster clinic or by Telehealth (Zoom), for children, adolescents and adults.
Are sessions covered by Medicare?+
With a valid referral and Mental Health Care Plan from your GP (or a referral from a paediatrician or psychiatrist), Medicare rebates are available for up to 10 sessions per calendar year, subject to current Australian Government rules. Private health fund rebates may also apply — check your policy for details.
📞 (03) 9848 9100