When should you see a doctor about low mood?

Low mood can follow stress, grief, poor sleep, illness, or difficult changes. It may also occur with depression, burnout, generalised anxiety disorder, alcohol use disorder, or physical problems such as hypothyroidism. The symptom alone does not establish a diagnosis, but changes in enjoyment, motivation, appetite, sleep, concentration, or relationships give a clinician useful context.

Book a routine appointment if low mood is making work, study, self-care, or relationships harder. Before the visit, write down mood changes, sleep, appetite, alcohol or drug use, medicines, and any recent stress. Keep contact with a trusted person, maintain a basic routine, and choose manageable activities. A Mental Health Assessment can help clarify support options.

Get urgent help now if you may harm yourself, cannot stay safe, hear or see things others do not, feel severely agitated, or have stopped eating or drinking. Tell someone you trust and contact local emergency services or an emergency department; do not remain alone while waiting for help.

Ask what might be contributing, whether a physical check or medication review is appropriate, which talking treatments or supports fit your situation, and when you should return if your mood does not improve.