Depression/Low Mood
Depression/low mood can affect anybody at anytime. It can make a person's daily life seem like a real struggle, making even the small tasks difficult. Usually, a person who experiences depression/low mood gets into a negative way of thinking about themselves, other people and the future, which can lead to feelings of hopelessness and helplessness, reduced motivation and avoidance of activities. Seeking professional help when these feelings appear is a crucial step to overcoming depression/low mood.
Depression/low mood can affect a person's life in many areas such as:
- Relationships
- Work
- Self-care
- Socialising and leisure
Common symptoms experienced by individuals with depression/low mood can be separated in three categories:
psychological
- low mood or sadness - tearfulness - irritability - lack of enjoyment - low self-esteem- lack of motivation and little interest in things - suicidal thoughts or thoughts of harming someone else.
physical
- lack of energy - slowed movement or speech - change in appetite and weight (decreased but sometimes increased) - unexplained aches and pains - disturbed sleep patterns (problems going to sleep or waking up in the early hours of the morning).
social
- reduced hobbies and interests - avoidance of social activities and contact with friends - poor performance at work - difficulties in family life.
Self-help strategies
There are a variety of self-help strategies that can have a positive effect on feelings of depression/ low mood. Below are some of the most effective:
Physical exercise
Exercise releases endorphins into the body which in turn create positive feelings of well-being and can improve a person's sleep.
Restful sleeping
Sleep has an important impact on the way we feel both psychologically and physically, so finding ways of getting in a sleep routine and relaxing before bed time can increase the chances of gradually feeling better.
Practical activities
Setting a plan of routine, necessary and pleasant activities throughout the day can lead to feelings of achievement and lift mood.
Keep in contact with close friends
It might feel difficult to keep in touch with friends while experiencing depression/low mood but doing so can stop the social isolation which increases the feelings of low mood.