When Life Feels Heavy: Recognising and Managing Low Mood and Depression

We all have those days when everything feels a bit grey and heavy, when getting out of bed seems harder than usual, or when that spark of joy feels distant. Sometimes it's just a rough patch and a normal part of life, but when it lasts for days, weeks, or longer and affects your daily life, it deserves more attention and care.

Recognising the Signs

Everyone can experience low mood and depression, and whilst they may look different for each person, there are some common patterns to look out for. You might notice that activities you once enjoyed no longer bring pleasure. Maybe your favorite hobby feels like a chore, or spending time with friends feels exhausting rather than energizing. Sleep often becomes complicated too; you might sleep much more than usual or lying awake at night, unable to fall asleep

Changes in appetite are another telling sign. Some people lose interest in food entirely, whilst others might find themselves eating more than usual, especially comfort foods. Energy levels can drastically drop, and simple tasks like doing laundry or responding to texts can feel overwhelming.

Most importantly, pay attention to your inner dialogue. Are you being unusually critical of yourself? Do you find yourself thinking, "What's the point?" more often? These persistent negative thoughts, especially when they stick around for weeks rather than days, can signal that you're dealing with more than just a temporary low mood.

The Difference Between Sadness and Depression

It's completely normal to feel sad after difficult life events or during stressful periods. Sadness is a natural human emotion and a reaction to something negative happening to you, and it usually lifts as time passes or circumstances improve. When you're sad, self-care, like a good sleep, a cup of tea, and your best friend's company, can help. You're still able to function despite the circumstances, and you feel better as time passes.

Depression (Major Depressive Disorder), however, tends to persist even when things in your life are going well. It's like having a heavy blanket over your experience of the world that doesn't lift easily. Whilst low mood is temporary, depression doesn't just subside on its own with time. It stays with you and interferes with your ability to live your life as you once did.

If you experience these symptoms for two weeks or longer, it's time to consider asking for help. There are many effective ways to support your mental health, and you don't have to navigate this alone.

Taking Steps Forward

Start with the basics: Sometimes our mood improves when we take care of our physical needs. Try to maintain regular sleep patterns, eat nourishing foods, and get some sunlight each day. Even a short walk outside can make a difference.

Connect with others: Isolation often makes everything feel worse. Reach out to trusted friends or family members, even if it's just a quick text. Sometimes simply saying "I'm struggling" can provide relief.

Consider professional support: Just as you'd see a doctor for a physical problem, mental health professionals can provide valuable tools and perspective to help you feel better. Therapy, counselling, or speaking with your GP can open doors to treatment options that might help.

Be patient with yourself: Recovery isn't straightforward, nor does it happen overnight. Be patient with yourself, as healing takes time. Some days will be better than others, and that's perfectly normal.

When to Seek Help Immediately

If you're having thoughts of self-harm or suicide, please reach out for immediate support. Contact emergency services, a crisis helpline, or go to your nearest A&E department. These feelings can be treated, and there are people ready to help you through this difficult time.

Remember, asking for help is a sign of wisdom and self-care. You deserve support, and there are effective treatments available. Taking that first step towards getting help is often the most difficult step, but it's also the most important one.

It is the bravest thing we can do, not to fight our darkness alone, but to trust that there are hands ready to help us carry the weight until we are strong enough to set it down.

If you're supporting someone who's struggling, or you'd like to talk to someone about anything you're going through, drop me a message below or DM me. I'm here to listen and support you!