In crisis? find out how you can get urgent support
If you need support urgently or outside of our working hours, please don’t hesitate to contact

SAMARITANS

Freephone their Veterans Support Hub for the military community on 0808 175 3075 (24/7) or email jo@samaritans.org – to access confidential emotional support for feelings of distress, despair or suicidal thoughts.

SHOUT

A crisis text support service for people in the military community who are struggling and need immediate support to get through a crisis. Text CONTACT to 85258. #TextCONTACT85258

NHS 111

To access medical help fast but when it’s not a 999 emergency, telephone 111 (available 24 hours). To access information from the NHS on conditions, treatments, local services and healthy living, visit the NHS website.

COMBAT STRESS

For urgent psychological support, please call 0800 1381619

SHELTER

For urgent housing support, please call 0808 800 4444

What is a low mood and depression? 

Everyone feels sad or unhappy at times. These feelings usually pass, and we get back to feeling ourselves. This is known as a low mood.  

If your low mood lasts for a long time and affects your daily life, it could be depression. The feeling of depression is deeper, longer lasting and often more unpleasant.  

Sometimes depression makes everything feel harder to do and seem less worthwhile. At its worst, depression can be life-threatening because it can cause suicidal thoughts. 

How low mood and depression can affect you

Low mood can affect your thoughts. Some people become irritable. Others may feel guilty or worthless. Sometimes depression makes people feel isolated.  

You may also experience physical symptoms, such as headaches, or problems with sleep. Low mood and depression can even affect the immune system, so you may become sick easier. 

How to break the cycle of depression 

When your mood is low, it’s common to withdraw from day-to-day activities. This creates a cycle that's hard to break. If you can regain an interest in at least one thing you enjoy, it can help things feel more positive. 

Our sports and social activities are designed to help people meet people in fun and supported environments. 

Challenge unhelpful thinking styles 

Depression and low mood can make us think in unhelpful ways. Some examples of unhelpful thinking include

  • Being your own worst critic
  • Having a gloomy view of the future
  • Jumping to the worst conclusion 
  • A negative view of how others see you. 

If you have unhelpful thoughts, try to be aware of what they are. This makes it easier for you to challenge them and think in a more helpful way.  

Find a coping strategy 

Everyone is different, so coping strategies vary from person to person. Here are a few examples: 

  • Improve your sleep – a good night’s rest protects your mental and physical health, improves your quality of life and helps your body repair itself. 
  • Talk to someone – if you or a loved one is finding it hard to cope, our mental health therapy service for veterans and families, called Hidden Wounds is here to listen. 
  • Learn how to boost your mental health – we have free self-help guides and online courses to help people learn the skills and knowledge to look after their mental health

Support for low mood and depression 

GP and Doctor’s Surgeries 

Your doctor can also help you make informed decisions about medication or other treatment, such as talking therapy. 

It may feel difficult but be open and honest with them. By knowing the full picture, they’ll be able to offer the best support for you.

How to live well with low mood and depression.

Take the course