Low Mood
Persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness that last most of the day and feel different from normal sadness.
Also known as: feeling sad, persistent sadness, feeling down, feeling blue, depressed mood, feeling empty
What This Can Look Like
Low Mood can show up differently in different situations. Here are some common experiences:
“Some people describe waking up with a heavy feeling that colors everything, making even favorite activities feel flat or meaningless.”
“For example, getting through the workday might feel like moving through fog, with a persistent weight that doesn't lift even during breaks or good news.”
“This might look like going through daily routines but feeling disconnected from any sense of enjoyment or satisfaction, even from things that used to bring pleasure.”
Related Experiences
People who notice low mood sometimes also experience:
Conditions Where This Can Appear
Important: Experiencing low mood does not mean you have any particular diagnosis. Many people experience this without having a diagnosable condition. Only a qualified professional can determine if symptoms meet criteria for a specific diagnosis.
Major Depressive Disorder
Low mood is a core feature that persists for at least two weeks and represents a change from previous functioning.
Persistent Depressive Disorder
With this pattern, low mood persists for years rather than weeks, often becoming so familiar it feels like 'just how I am.'
Bipolar Disorder
Low mood can occur during depressive episodes, which alternate with periods of elevated mood or energy.
Other Possible Causes
Low Mood can sometimes have non-psychological causes that are worth considering:
- Thyroid conditions (hypothyroidism) can cause persistent low mood
- Sleep disorders may contribute to mood changes
- Certain medications list mood changes as a side effect
- Grief and major life transitions often involve temporary low mood
- Chronic pain or illness can affect mood
- Nutritional deficiencies (vitamin D, B12) may play a role
If you're experiencing persistent or concerning symptoms, it's always a good idea to talk with a healthcare provider who can help rule out medical causes.
When to Consider Getting Support
While experiencing low mood doesn't automatically mean you need professional help, there are times when reaching out can be beneficial:
- 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