Asking for help when things get tough is the bravest thing you can do. At On Call Hope™, we’re here for you 24/7, ready to help you navigate these challenging moments. Your feelings are valid, your struggles are real, and your mental health matters. Let us be your lifeline.

CRISIS: Urgent Therapist Connect

Healing Begins Today January 1, 2024

Feeling Down/Off

Understanding Your Feelings

Everyone has off days. It’s completely normal to feel down or off at times, and it doesn’t necessarily mean you have clinical depression or another mental health issue. Feeling down can be a temporary response to an external factor, like a stressful event or lack of sleep. Clinical depression, on the other hand, is a medical condition that affects your mood, thoughts, and body, and can last for a long period of time. Understanding the distinction is important, as it can guide you in deciding what kind of help or support you need.

Common Causes of Low Mood

Feeling down or off can be triggered by various factors:

Stress

High stress levels can take a toll on your mental and physical well-being.

Lack of Sleep

Not getting enough sleep can significantly affect your mood and energy levels.

Hormonal Changes

Fluctuations in hormone levels can lead to mood swings and feelings of sadness or irritability.

Weather Changes

Seasonal changes, especially the transition to winter, can affect your mood.

Being Overwhelmed

Feeling overwhelmed by responsibilities or problems can lead to feelings of helplessness or despair.

Self-Care Tips

Taking care of yourself is crucial for maintaining good mental health. Here are some self-care activities that can help improve your mood and well-being:

  • Exercise: Physical activity releases endorphins, which are natural mood lifters.
  • Spend Time Outdoors: Being in nature can have a calming effect on your mind.
  • Engage in a Hobby: Doing something you enjoy can be a great way to take your mind off stressors and focus on something positive.
  • Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness exercises, like meditation or deep breathing, can help clear your mind and reduce stress.

When to Seek Help

It’s important to recognize when feeling down or off is more than just a temporary slump. If you find that your mood is affecting your daily life, or if you’ve been feeling this way for an extended period, it might be necessary to consult a professional. There is no shame in seeking help, and it’s an important step towards taking care of your mental health.

Take an Assessment

We invite you to take an informal diagnostic quiz to pinpoint how you’re feeling. Getting insight into how your brain is working can help you figure out how you want to proceed.

Connect with a Therapist

If you’re ready to talk to someone about what you’re going through, click here. Speaking to a therapist through On Call Hope, even just once, can provide a great deal of tools, resources, and clarity.

Crisis Help

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911.
If it is a mental health emergency that does not require urgent medical intervention, click here for immediate help.