Depression and low mood

Depression can feel isolating, yet it is also one of the most treatable mental health difficulties. With the right therapy, it is possible to recover hope, energy, and a renewed sense of self.

What is Depression?

Depression is a common psychological condition that affects how you think, feel, and function day to day. Unlike temporary sadness, depression often lingers for weeks or months and can affect sleep, appetite, concentration, and relationships.

It may develop after stressful events, loss, or illness, but sometimes arises without an obvious trigger.

Biological, psychological, and social factors can all contribute, and depression often involves a complex interaction of these.

Symptoms of Depression

Depression shows up in different ways, but common symptoms include:

• Persistent sadness, emptiness, or tearfulness

• Loss of pleasure or interest in activities once enjoyed

• Fatigue or low energy, even after rest

• Sleep difficulties — insomnia or oversleeping

• Changes in appetite or weight

• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

• Feelings of guilt, shame, or worthlessness

• Withdrawal from friends, family, or responsibilities

• Thoughts of death or suicide (if present, seek immediate support)

Not everyone experiences all symptoms, and severity can range from mild to very disabling.

Types of Depression

Depression can take different forms, including:

• Major Depressive Disorder: persistent and often severe symptoms that interfere with daily life

• Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia): long-term low mood lasting years, sometimes less intense but chronic

• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): depression that follows a seasonal pattern, often worse in winter months

• Postnatal Depression: depression occurring after childbirth (see our Perinatal Mental Health page)

Causes and Risk Factors

While no single cause explains depression, common contributing factors include:

• Biological: family history of depression, hormonal changes, medical conditions

• Psychological: perfectionism, negative thinking styles, history of trauma or loss

• Social: isolation, financial stress, relationship difficulties, lack of support

• Understanding what has contributed to your experience helps guide therapy towards effective, personalised treatment.

How Therapy Can Help with Depression

If low mood is persistent, interfering with sleep, work, or relationships, or if you feel hopeless about the future, therapy can help.

Even if you have lived with depression for years, change is possible.

A first consultation will help you make sense of your experience and find a treatment approach that feels right for you.

Depression responds well to psychological therapies. At our clinic, your treatment plan is tailored to your individual needs and preferences.

Approaches may include:

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): challenges negative thinking and supports behavioural activation to re-engage in rewarding activities

• Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT): addresses shame and harsh self-criticism, helping you develop a kinder relationship with yourself

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): helps you connect with personal values and take meaningful steps forward, even when low mood is present

• Schema Therapy: explores deeper patterns and beliefs that may underlie long-standing depression

• Mindfulness-based approaches: reduce rumination and cultivate awareness of the present moment

Therapy provides practical coping strategies in the short term, while also addressing the underlying issues that keep depression going.