Even though they sound similar, low mood and depression impact us in different ways. A low mood affects our behaviour and feelings for a shorter period – for example, you may lose interest in your favourite activities for a brief time. We all have bad days that impact our mood.
Depression, on the other hand, involves persistent feelings of sadness or loss of interest in activities and lasts longer. Depression is a mental illness that significantly impacts a person’s mood. Signs of depression can include feeling sad, worthless, hopeless, guilty or anxious all the time. Some people lose interest in hobbies or activities they used to enjoy and may withdraw from other people. Depression can also affect the way people eat, sleep and concentrate.
For individuals recently discharged from the hospital, low mood and depression are common. With many appointments to remember and new routines to establish, this can be a stressful and overwhelming time, making it crucial for those prone to low mood and depression to take extra care of their mental well-being. Maintaining mental health and physical health while dealing with depression post-discharge can be challenging, but these tips can help:
- Keep a journal, “mood tracker,” or calendar of all your appointments
- Practice mindfulness and breathing techniques
- Make dietary adjustments
- Incorporate exercise into your routine
- Prioritize sleep
- Build self esteem
- Avoid recreational drugs and alcohol
- Take your prescribed medications regularly
- Seek help, attend a depression support group, and speak to your doctor
You are not alone – we are here to help. The Canadian Mental Health Association York Region South Simcoe offers free depression support groups, programs and resources to help you live life to the fullest.
The Community Transitions Team (CTT) can support you in your recovery journey. CTT is a hospital diversion program, that assists clients with a safe and smooth transition from hospital to community, aiming to prevent further hospital visits. We support clients for a 3-month period, helping with housing, developing a wellness plan, and providing support for mental health and substance abuse. We also refer clients to appropriate resources in the community to support their recovery journey.
The CTT Team provides hope and comfort to clients by navigating referrals and addressing questions about community resources. The CTT Team reassures clients that their story is important and makes space to hear them offering understanding and guidance. We help clients establish a daily routine and a wellness plan that includes eating regular meals, drinking enough water, getting good-quality sleep and keeping a journal. This practice provides a powerful visual record of feelings and daily activities, helping clients track their emotions and daily tasks.
Looking for support? Learn more about Community Transitions, a free program available for anyone 16+ living in York Region and South Simcoe:
