Depression and Low Mood

Depression is more than feeling sad or having a bad day. It often involves ongoing changes in mood, thinking, energy, and motivation that can make everyday tasks feel difficult or overwhelming.

Depression can develop for a range of reasons, including life stress, loss, trauma, biological vulnerability, or long-standing patterns of self-criticism and disconnection. For many people, depression emerges gradually and can be hard to recognise at first.

Signs & Symptoms of Depression and Low Mood

Depression can affect people in different ways, and symptoms may vary in intensity and duration.

Common signs may include:

persistent low mood or reduced enjoyment
low energy, motivation, or concentration
changes in sleep, appetite, or routine
withdrawal from others or usual activities
increased self-criticism or feelings of hopelessness

Not everyone experiences all of these symptoms, and they may change over time.

When To Get Help for Depression & What Can We Do?

At Eir Practice, work with depression begins with taking time to understand what has contributed to these experiences and what is maintaining them.

We work collaboratively to develop a shared understanding of patterns related to mood, thinking, behaviour, and the nervous system, and to identify approaches that support reconnection, emotional safety, and gradual change.

Our work is informed by compassion-focused and evidence-based therapies, and is tailored to each person’s needs, pace, and circumstances.