How is low mood treated?

Feeling down can follow stress, poor sleep, illness, bereavement or exhaustion. It may also be part of depression, generalised anxiety disorder, burnout, insomnia, hypothyroidism, vitamin D deficiency, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome or Long COVID. A clinician considers how long the change has lasted, how it affects daily life, and whether there are physical symptoms. Low mood does not by itself establish any one diagnosis.

Speak with a GP if low mood is persistent, keeps returning, or is affecting work, relationships, sleep or self-care. The assessment may include questions about mood, anxiety, medicines, alcohol, sleep and physical health, with tests when symptoms suggest a medical contributor. Treatment can include structured talking therapy, help with sleep and routines, social support, activity suited to your energy, and an antidepressant when clinically appropriate. Do not stop prescribed medicine suddenly; discuss unwanted effects or concerns with the prescriber.

Get urgent help if you might harm yourself, feel unable to stay safe, or are experiencing severe confusion, agitation or unusual beliefs. Contact a clinician soon if you are withdrawing from daily activities, cannot sleep for several nights, or are struggling to eat, work or care for yourself. If safety is at immediate risk, contact local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency department.

What might be contributing to my low mood? Would talking therapy, physical-health checks or medicine help? How soon should we review progress? What should I do if my mood worsens or treatment causes side effects?