We all experience low mood in different ways. It can not only impact upon how you feel but it can also affect how you live your day to day life, including your relationships, eating and sleeping patterns, concentration and school work. It can lead to feelings of hopelessness and stop you from enjoying the things you normally would.
Feeling low does not necessarily mean you are depressed, but if these feelings continue, it is important to talk to your GP to get a full diagnosis.
Signs of depression may include:
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avoiding friends or social situations
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sleeping more or less than normal
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eating more or less than normal
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feeling irritable, upset, miserable or lonely
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feeling tired and not having any energy
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being self-critical
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feeling hopeless
Just because you experience one or more of these symptoms, it doesn’t mean you’re definitely affected by depression. It probably does mean that you should talk to someone: a friend, member of your family unit, your GP and/or a trained counsellor.
Where to go for help and advice:
youngminds.org.uk
themix.org.uk/search/depression