Difficult events and experiences can leave us in low spirits or cause depression.
Difficult events and experiences can leave us in low spirits or cause depression.
It could be relationship problems,
, sleep problems, stress at work, , chronic illness or pain.Sometimes it's possible to feel down without there being an obvious reason.
A general low mood can include:
However, a low mood will tend to lift after a few days or weeks.
Making some small changes in your life, like resolving a difficult situation, talking about your problems or getting more sleep, can usually improve your mood.
A low mood that doesn't go away can be a sign of
. Symptoms of depression can include the following:Depression can also come on at specific points in your life, such as the winter months
and after the birth of a child .Whatever the cause, if negative feelings don't go away, are too much for you to cope with, or are stopping you from carrying on with your normal life, you may need to make some changes and get some extra support.
If you're still feeling down after a couple of weeks, talk to your doctor. Your doctor can discuss your symptoms with you and make a diagnosis.
If you're diagnosed with depression, your doctor will discuss all of the available treatment options with you, including self-help, talking therapies and
.Whether you have depression or just find yourself feeling down for a while, it could be worth trying some self-help techniques.
Life changes, such as getting a regular good night's sleep, eating a healthy diet, reducing your alcohol intake and getting
, can help you feel more in control and more able to cope.Self-help techniques can include activities such as meditation, breathing exercises and learning ways to think about problems differently. Tools such as self-help books and online counselling can be very effective.
If your doctor has prescribed antidepressants, it's important that you carry on taking them.
There are lots of different types of talking therapies available. To help you decide which one would suit you best, talk to your doctor about different types of talking therapies.
In some areas, you can refer yourself directly to your local psychological therapies service.
If your doctor prescribes you antidepressants, they'll discuss the different types and which one would suit you best.
Learn more about antidepressants.
If you start to feel like your life isn't worth living, or that you want to harm yourself, get help straight away.
Either see your doctor or go to the Emergency Department. If you live in the UK you can also call Samaritans on 116 123 for 24-hour confidential, non-judgmental emotional support.
Important: Our website provides useful information but is not a substitute for medical advice. You should always seek the advice of your doctor when making decisions about your health.