Depression

You can give blood if you have depression if you are well on the day. Taking an antidepressant is generally not a cause for deferral if you are well established on your treatment (at least 4 weeks) and have no side effects from the medication.

You cannot give blood if you are severely depressed or have not improved on your treatment or are taking a number of types of medication.

You cannot give blood if you have Bipolar Illness (manic-depression) and are taking Lithium or other medication at present or have needed medication in the past.

If you are on medication and would like to discuss this with us, please contact us on our Donor Infoline 1800 731 137.