Low mood and depression: GP reviewed information
Everyone experiences periods of low mood from time to time. These can occur in response to life events, stress, illness or exhaustion and often improve with time and support.
Depression is different. It describes a more persistent and pervasive change in mood that affects how a person thinks, feels and functions day to day. This page explains how GPs distinguish between low mood and depression, common symptoms, how assessment is approached in primary care and when further support is needed.
This information is for general education and does not replace a personalised medical or mental health assessment. If you are feeling unsafe, at risk of harm, or unable to cope, please seek urgent help via NHS 111, your local urgent mental health service, or emergency services.
How low mood commonly presents
Low mood can affect people emotionally, physically and cognitively. Symptoms vary between individuals and may fluctuate over time.
People often describe:
- Feeling sad, flat or tearful
- Loss of interest or enjoyment in activities
- Reduced motivation or drive
- Low energy or fatigue
- Poor sleep or changes in appetite
- Difficulty concentrating
- Increased irritability or withdrawal from others
For some, symptoms are subtle and develop gradually. Others notice a more sudden change in how they feel.
Low mood versus depression
From a GP perspective, duration, severity and impact on daily life are key.
Low mood is more likely when:
- Symptoms are mild to moderate
- Mood improves at times or with distraction
- There is a clear triggering event
- Day-to-day functioning is largely preserved
Depression is more likely when:
- Symptoms persist most days for two weeks or more
- Enjoyment is markedly reduced
- Motivation and functioning are significantly affected
- Thoughts become persistently negative or hopeless
These are not rigid categories. Many people sit somewhere in between, and assessment focuses on the individual rather than labels alone.
How depression can affect thinking and behaviour
Depression does not only affect mood. It often changes how people interpret themselves and the world around them.
Common thought patterns include:
- Excessive self-criticism or guilt
- Feeling like a burden to others
- Loss of confidence or self-worth
- Pessimism about the future
- Difficulty making decisions
Behavioural changes may include reduced activity, avoidance of social contact and difficulty maintaining routines.
How GPs assess low mood and depression
There is no single test for depression. Assessment is based on careful discussion and clinical judgement.
A GP may explore:
- Duration and progression of symptoms
- Impact on work, relationships and self-care
- Sleep, appetite and energy levels
- Physical symptoms that accompany mood changes
- Alcohol or substance use
- Previous episodes of low mood or depression
- Current stressors and support networks
Screening questionnaires may be used to support assessment, but they do not replace a clinical conversation.
When physical causes are considered
Low mood can sometimes be influenced or worsened by physical health issues.
A GP may consider blood tests if symptoms suggest:
- Thyroid problems
- Anaemia
- Vitamin deficiencies
- Hormonal changes
- Chronic medical conditions
Investigations are targeted and based on symptoms rather than routine.
Approaches to managing low mood and depression
Management depends on symptom severity, duration and personal preference.
Common approaches include:
- Education and reassurance
- Addressing contributing stressors
- Improving sleep and daily routine
- Psychological therapies such as CBT
- Antidepressant medication in selected cases
- Combination approaches for moderate to severe symptoms
Medication is not always required, particularly for milder or situational low mood.
When to seek further medical review
You should seek review if:
- Low mood persists beyond two weeks
- Symptoms are worsening
- Work or relationships are affected
- You feel increasingly hopeless or withdrawn
- Self-care becomes difficult
Early support improves outcomes and reduces the risk of symptoms becoming entrenched.
When to seek urgent medical help
Seek urgent help if you experience:
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
- Feeling unable to keep yourself safe
- Sudden behavioural changes noticed by others
- Severe withdrawal or inability to function
In these situations, urgent NHS services or emergency care are appropriate.
GP insight
Low mood and depression are common, and many people delay seeking help because they worry their symptoms are not “serious enough”. GPs assess the whole picture, not just a checklist, and support can be offered at any stage.
Visit our Mental Health hub or browse more health topics in the AccessGP Knowledge Base.
If low mood or depressive symptoms are affecting your wellbeing, an online GP appointment can help assess symptoms, rule out physical contributors and discuss appropriate support options.
Last reviewed by Dr Zamiel Hussain, GMC registered GP
Updated: 19 January 2026