Low mood and depressive symptoms
Low mood is a natural feeling that everyone experiences from time to time. When low mood lasts for a longer period and affects the ability to function in everyday life, it may be depression. Depression is one of the most common mental disorders and affects approximately one in five Norwegians during their lifetime.
Depression is not a sign of weakness, but a medical condition that can be treated effectively. The earlier you seek help, the better the prognosis.
Symptoms
- Persistent low mood and sadness
- Loss of interest and pleasure in things you usually enjoy
- Fatigue and lack of energy
- Sleep disturbances (too much or too little sleep)
- Changes in appetite and weight
- Difficulty concentrating and indecisiveness
- Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
- Social withdrawal
- In severe cases: thoughts that life is not worth living
When should you contact a psychologist?
- The low mood lasts more than two weeks
- You have lost interest in activities you used to enjoy
- The symptoms affect your job, studies, or relationships
- You isolate yourself from family and friends
- You have thoughts of self-harm or suicide (in acute danger, call 113)
Treatment
Talk therapy, especially cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), is a well-documented treatment for depression. Through therapy, you can learn to recognize and change negative thought patterns, resume meaningful activities, and develop coping strategies. A psychologist at Eyr can help you understand your symptoms and develop a treatment plan tailored to your situation. If necessary, the psychologist can also recommend that you talk to a doctor about medication.
