Everyone experiences low mood from time to time. It’s part of being human, and it would be unrealistic to expect the children, young people, or adults in our care – or even ourselves – to feel happy all the time.
What matters most is how we notice, respond to, and support someone when they’re struggling with low mood.
Why low mood happens
Low mood can have many different causes. Sometimes, it’s linked to tiredness, hunger, or feeling unwell. At other times, it can stem from changes in someone’s life, such as starting a new school, moving home, or family changes.
For older children and teenagers, puberty and physical development can also have a big impact on their mood. For adults, ageing or ongoing health issues may play a part in experiencing low mood.
It’s also worth remembering that lived experiences, stressful memories, trauma, or recovery after a difficult event can all weigh heavily. Each person is unique, so the way low mood manifests will vary.
Download our Staff Meeting in a Box: Trauma-Informed Support.
Noticing the signs of low mood
Low mood doesn’t always look like sadness. It may show in body language, behaviour, or the way someone interacts with others. You might notice withdrawal, irritability, or a change in energy levels. Sometimes children and young people appear ‘moody’ or ‘grumpy’ but what they are really trying to communicate is that something doesn’t feel right for them.
Patterns are important to look out for. Does low mood tend to happen at certain times of day, in specific environments, or after particular events? Using our knowledge of an individual and exploring these patterns can provide clues about how best to offer support.
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