LOW MOOD, SADNESS AND DEPRESSION

Depression is a common mental health problem. It is a complex condition and its causes are not fully understood. They may include biological factors; such as genetics, experience of physical illness or injury or psychological factors; such as experiences dating back to childhood, unemployment or bereavement or life-changing events; such as pregnancy. Having a long standing or life threatening illness such as heart disease, back pain or cancer has been associated with an increased risk of depression.

Symptoms of a low mood

Symptoms of a general low mood may include feeling:

• sad
• anxious or panicky
• more tired than usual or being unable to sleep
• angry or frustrated
• loss of interest or pleasure
• feeling of guilt or low self-worth
• low on confidence or self-esteem

A low mood often gets better after a few days or weeks.

It's usually possible to improve a low mood by making small changes in your life. For example, resolving something that is bothering you or getting more sleep.

Symptoms of depression

If you have a low mood that lasts two weeks or more, it could be a sign of depression.

Other symptoms of depression may include:

• not getting any enjoyment out of life
• feeling hopeless
• not being able to concentrate on everyday things
• having suicidal thoughts or thoughts about harming yourself

 

Things you can try to help with a low mood, sadness and depression

Do

• talk about your feelings to a friend, family member, your doctor or counselor. 
• some simple lifestyle changes to help you feel more in control and able to cope
• master a new skill
• list your accomplishments
• do something creative
• get clear on your values
• challenge and turn away from negativity
• move to the edge of your comfort zone
• help someone in need
• stop worrying about what others think of you
• read something inspirational or spiritual
• reclaim your integrity
• do not interact with negative people 
• care about your appearance
• learn from your past failures
• become a mentor
• define success in terms of your self-confidence
• consider peer support, where people use their experiences to help each other
• try mindfulness, where you focus on the present moment
•  

Don't

• do not try to do everything at once; set small targets that you can easily achieve
• do not focus on the things that you cannot change – focus your time and energy into helping yourself feel better
• do not to tell yourself that you are alone – most people feel low sometimes and support is 
• available
• do not use alcohol, cigarettes, gambling or drugs to relieve a low mood. These can all contribute to poor mental health

As usual, we remind you to take your Memo Plus Gold daily. It will help soothe your emotions and stabilize your mood. For more information or to order for Memo Plus Gold, please visit : https://oze.my.