Most people feel low sometimes, but if it’s affecting your life, there are things you can try that may help. Some people think depression is trivial and not a genuine health condition. They’re wrong – it is a real illness with real symptoms. Depression is not a sign of weakness or something you can “snap out of” by “pulling yourself together”.
Feeling low may cause someone to stop doing the things they like, cut themselves off from loved ones or have difficulty sleeping. Other signs include feeling:
- sad
- worried, anxious or panicked
- tired
- less confident
- frustrated, irritated or angry
A low mood should lift after a few days, but if it lasts longer than about two weeks, it may be a sign of depression.
The good news is that with the right treatment and support, most people with depression can make a full recovery.
Watch the video below for some top tips to help you deal with low mood.
If low mood is affecting your daily life or causing you distress, call NHS 111, talk to your GP or refer yourself to our local talking therapies (IAPT) service.
Urgent help
If you cannot wait to see a doctor and feel unable to cope or keep yourself safe, it’s important to get support – services are still open during the coronavirus outbreak.
