It can be very confusing knowing if your current low mood requires professional help.

At times the mental health problems you face can actually impede your capacity to access the support that is required. At times you can struggle to feel you even deserve help, support, or attention from others. Or you may struggle to feel capable of helping yourself as you feel so hopeless, overwhelmed and exhausted.

It may be helpful to do a little mental health check-up of these common signs of depression;

You find little interest or pleasure in doing things such as day-to-day activities or socialising

You feel low, down or hopeless about things

You feel tired for no reason and can’t seem to motivate yourself to do things as you could before

You have noticed a change in your sleep patterns

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You have noticed a change in your eating patterns

You are finding it difficult to concentrate on day-to-day activities as well as usual

You feel unable to control your negative thoughts and feel bad about yourself

You are more irritable, or short-tempered than usual

You have thoughts you would be better off dead, or of hurting yourself in some way

If the answer is yes to a number of these symptoms it could be helpful for you to arrange to meet and talk with a counsellor, psychotherapist or other mental health professional. An initial consultation with a non-judgemental, confidential, empathic and experienced therapist may be the initial step to accessing help.

All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.