When we experience low mood, we can feel sad, have difficulties sleeping or feel more anxious than normal. It typically lasts a few days or weeks.

Depression on the other hand is more than feeling unhappy or down for a few days. It is a long period of feeling very low and struggling to feel happiness in the things you usually enjoy. Even day-to-day tasks can feel incredibly difficult, and you can feel helpless as you struggle to see a way out.

Depression can affect anyone at any age. It can sometimes be triggered by a difficult time in life - such as a relationship breakdown, period of ill health or difficulties at work - but sometimes it can appear even when life seems fine.

If you've noticed that you are struggling with prolonged low mood, TALKWORKS is here to help you.

What are the symptoms and signs of depression?

There are many signs that could indicate you are feeling low or experiencing depression. Some are more obvious than others, and understanding your symptoms is an important first step towards finding the right treatment. 

Common symptoms include:

  • Tiredness and loss of energy
  • Prolonged sadness
  • Feeling dread and worry for the future
  • Loss of self-confidence and self-esteem
  • Withdrawing from seeing friends and taking part in activities
  • Feeling irritable and agitated
  • Loneliness
  • Losing your sex drive or experiencing sexual problems
  • Contemplating hurting yourself

How can I feel better when I'm feeling low?

If you are feeling low, TALKWORKS can help. We can provide you with talking therapies, including counselling for depression (CfD) and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to help you understand depression and to develop strategies to improve your mood. Our mindfulness practitioners also offer an eight week mindfulness based cognitive therapy (MBCT) course which is aimed at supporting people who are experiencing mild depression or who are in recovery from depression.