top of page
Clematis Psychology Logo

Depression and low mood

Everyone experiences periods of low mood from time to time. It is often a natural response to stressful or difficult periods in life. But sometimes low mood can become more persistent, or begin to affect daily life in ways that feel heavier and harder to shift.


A low mood may be becoming a problem when you notice things like:

 

  • It sticking around longer than you would normally expect

  • It happening more frequently

  • Finding it harder to bounce back after setbacks

  • Activities you used to enjoy no longer feeling enjoyable

  • Withdrawing from others because keeping up a “happy face” feels exhausting

  • Changes in sleep or appetite, such as comfort eating, loss of appetite, sleeping too much, or struggling to sleep

 

Some people describe feeling flat, numb, or disconnected from themselves or from the people around them.

 

Depression can also show up in other ways. You might notice:

​​

  • Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

  • Feeling overwhelmed by everyday tasks

  • Irritability or having a shorter fuse than usual

  • A sense of hopelessness or feeling stuck

  • Lower self-esteem or increased self-criticism

  • Feeling tired or physically slowed down

Depression can develop for many different reasons.

 

Sometimes it follows stressful periods, burnout, relationship strain, grief, trauma, or major life changes. Other times it builds gradually after long periods of pressure or feeling worn down. Anxiety and depression also commonly show up together.


Often people are used to being capable and getting on with things. When depression shows up, it can be confusing to suddenly feel flat, unmotivated, or unable to do things that normally feel manageable.


Low mood and depression are very common, and they are not a sign of weakness. In therapy, we take time to understand what may be contributing to your mood and what might help shift it. This can involve developing practical ways of coping, reconnecting with activities and relationships that matter to you, and gradually rebuilding a sense of energy and enjoyment in daily life.

bottom of page