Low mood/sadness

What is low mood?

Feeling low or sad is a normal human response, however if you’ve been having low mood for a while (weeks/months/longer) or if your mood is getting in the way of your enjoying life, it’s important to get help.

There are lots of reasons someone might be struggling with low moods or depression; such as following the death of a loved one, prolonged stress, bullying or abuse.

Signs/symptoms of low mood/depression

• Feeling sad, anxious, hopeless
• Feeling tired/low energy
• Sleep problems
• Not enjoying things you used to
• Changes in appetite/eating
• Wanting to avoid people
• Feeling worthless/guilty/low self-esteem

Things to help boost mood/manage sadness

• Talk to someone you trust about how you are feeling- trusted adult/Childline Get Support | Childline
• Write down/draw your feelings
• Eat a healthy diet and try to get some gentle exercise (walking)
• Try using coping strategies:  Coping Kit | Childline
• If you are experiencing any thoughts of life not worth living/self harm: make an appointment to speak to your GP

Resources

A parent’s guide to depression
Depression: Keeping hope alive – a guide for families and friends (Splashcake.com)

Websites

A guide for young people (www.youngminds.org.uk)
Depression | Signs & Symptoms of Depression | YoungMinds (for young people)
Depression & Low Mood | Signs, Symptoms & Treatment | YoungMinds (for parents)
Depression | Childline (for young people / parents)

Apps

Meditation and Sleep Made Simple – Headspace
Calm – App for Meditation and Sleep