When to worry about low mood with hypothyroidism

Reduced thyroid hormone activity can accompany tiredness, slowed thinking, feeling cold, constipation, dry skin and changes in weight. These symptoms can overlap with depression or medication effects. A low mood that is new, worsening or out of proportion to your usual symptoms deserves a clinical review rather than an assumption about its cause.

Note your mood, energy, sleep, concentration and physical symptoms, along with any change in prescribed thyroid treatment. Take medicine exactly as directed and do not adjust the dose yourself. Arrange a GP appointment for a review and any appropriate thyroid blood tests. Gentle routines, daylight, regular food and supportive company may help while you wait.

Get urgent help if you have thoughts of self-harm, cannot keep yourself safe, or are unable to manage basic needs. Call local emergency services or attend an emergency department. Seek prompt advice for marked confusion, extreme drowsiness, severe weakness, chest symptoms or rapidly worsening mental or physical health.

Ask whether your thyroid control could explain the change, whether another condition or medicine may contribute, and when results should be reviewed. Ask which mental-health treatments are suitable and what to do if your mood worsens before follow-up.