Depression and low mood are different yet share a number of similarities.
Low mood is best described as a temporary state of sadness, unhappiness or ‘feeling down’, whilst depression is a more severe and persistent mental health condition, characterised by prolonged periods of low mood, loss of interest in activities, and other debilitating symptoms.
Low mood can be a normal part of life and is usually resolved within a relatively short period e.g. a few days or weeks. Examples of low mood might be the feeling of being sad after a stressful event, having some kind of disappointment, or feeling frustrated by a setback.
Depression however persists for at least two weeks and may go on to last months or even years if not properly treated. Examples of how depression manifests include the persistent feeling of sadness or hopelessness, significant changes in appetite or sleep, feeling fatigued and having trouble concentrating. It significantly impacts daily functioning whether performance at work or school, relationships or overall wellbeing and it requires professional intervention such as a trained counsellor who can help in managing the symptoms and effecting real meaningful change.
