Depression and Low Mood
“Understanding Depression and Low Mood: You Are Not Alone”
In my 30 years as a counsellor, I have sat with hundreds of people navigating the quiet, often invisible pain of depression and low mood. While each person’s story is unique, the common thread is a sense of being stuck—sometimes in sadness, sometimes in numbness, sometimes in a feeling that life has simply lost its colour.
Depression can affect anyone, regardless of background, age, gender, or lifestyle. And here in the UK, where we often pride ourselves on our resilience, people may feel pressure to carry on as if nothing’s wrong. But under the surface, many are struggling.
Often depression can follow a loss of some sort….a change….or sometimes for no reason at all.
I have a good life ..everything is in a good place ..why why why do I feel depressed…….well its up to us to find out what is going on and we will do this together in therapy.
What Does Depression Feel Like?
It can be like living in a hell of smog
Depression isn’t just “feeling sad” or “having a bad day”. It can show up as:
- A persistent low mood, often for weeks or months
- Loss of interest or pleasure in things once enjoyed
- Changes in appetite, sleep, and energy
- Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or hopelessness
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
Sometimes, it feels like nothing matters. Other times, it feels like everything hurts. People often say they feel broken or lost—or that they "shouldn’t" feel this way and don’t understand why they do.
Please know this: depression is not a weakness. It’s a human experience. And it’s one we can talk about. I ALWAYS say to men ..its a strong man that comes to counselling not a weak one.
Depression in the UK Context
According to the NHS and mental health charities like Mind, rates of depression have risen over recent years, especially following the pandemic. The cost of living crisis, social isolation, climate anxiety, and ongoing uncertainty have all taken a toll on mental health. Many people are quietly carrying these burdens, unsure where to turn.
In our British culture, where the “stiff upper lip” still lingers, it can be hard to ask for help. But no one should have to face this alone.
Reaching Out for Support
If you’re experiencing low mood or depression, there is help available—and hope. Counselling can offer a space where you’re truly listened to, without judgement or agenda. Sometimes just being heard, really heard, can begin to shift the heaviness. —talking is a powerful first step.
Therapy isn’t about being “fixed.” It’s about being met where you are, with care, dignity, and respect. It’s about finding your way back to yourself, gently, over time. we can do this together . I have walked this road many times with clients.
A Gentle Invitation
If this speaks to you—or to someone you care about—I invite you to hold compassion for what you’re feeling. You are not being dramatic. You are not a burden. You are not alone.
Help is available. Healing is possible. And you are worthy of both.
I am just a phone call or email away.