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Mood & Motivation

Low Mood

Persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness that last most of the day and feel different from normal sadness.

  • “why do I feel sad all the time”
  • “can't shake this sadness”
  • “feeling hopeless”
  • “everything feels gray”

Also called feeling sad, persistent sadness, feeling down, feeling blue, depressed mood, feeling empty.

Can be part of

Major Depressive Disorder, Persistent Depressive Disorder and 1 more

Not always mental health

6 other possible causes, like thyroid conditions

Get help if

Low mood persists for more than two weeks

What it can look like

Everyday moments people describe.

Some people describe waking up with a heavy feeling that colors everything, making even favorite activities feel flat or meaningless.

Where it can come from

Many things can cause this. Only a clinician can tell which applies to you.

Low Mood in Major Depressive Disorder

Low mood is a core feature that persists for at least two weeks and represents a change from previous functioning.

How clinicians describe it

  • “Depressed mood most of the day, nearly every day”
About Major Depressive Disorder

Often comes with

Check in with yourself

A short, validated questionnaire can help you put words to it before an appointment.

PHQ-9 Depression Screener

Screens for depressive symptoms including low mood

When to get help

  • When low mood persists for more than two weeks
  • When it significantly interferes with daily responsibilities
  • When experiencing thoughts of self-harm or suicide
  • When physical symptoms like sleep or appetite changes accompany mood changes
Find a psychiatristIn crisis? Call or text 988Explore other symptoms

General information about a common experience, not a diagnosis or medical advice. What you are going through may have many explanations; a qualified professional can help you understand yours. Reviewed 2025-01-15.