Do you sometimes feel flat, without energy or desire? These moments of blues can happen to everyone. But why do some days seem so heavy, when everything was going well yesterday? Behind a simple drop in morale can hide multiple causes: fatigue, stress or even a hormonal imbalance. Good news: understanding the origins of this state is the first step to freeing yourself from it. Discover in this article practical advice to find your momentum again and say goodbye to gray thoughts!
Low morale : definition and symptoms
Knowing how to recognize the symptoms of low morale is important to better deal with it and prevent it from getting worse.
What is a drop in morale ?
A low morale is a temporary emotional state where one can feel sadness, weariness and discouragement. Anyone can feel the blues , at any time. For example, following:
- a stressful event;
- a hormonal imbalance;
- or a simple lack of sleep .
Rest assured: feeling down is temporary. And with a few adjustments to your lifestyle habits , you can quickly get back into a good mood .
Symptoms of low morale
The blues manifest themselves in various ways. And they can affect both the body and the mind:
- Disturbed appetite: Have you lost your appetite or are you experiencing food cravings ? These are signs that you may need comfort.
- Lack of energy: Chronic fatigue , even after a good night's sleep , should also put you on the right track.
- Sleep disturbances: you have difficulty falling asleep or you suffer from repeated nighttime awakenings.
- Low motivation: You feel unable to find pleasure or interest in activities that you previously enjoyed.
- Loss of libido: You have lost interest in intimate relationships, which is often linked to emotional or physical discomfort.
Is your sex drive at a standstill? Our article How to increase your libido should help you get it going again!
Blues, depression, anxiety and depression: how to differentiate them?
Feelings of the blues , depression, chronic depression… Be careful, all these emotional states are frequently associated, in a confused way, with low morale . Except that each has its own characteristics, intensity and lasting impact on daily life.
The Blues: A Passing State
The blues are a form of occasional sadness, often due to a specific event. Such as, among others:
- a disappointment;
- postpartum;
- family worries ;
- a change of season.
They manifest themselves as a feeling of melancholy and demotivation. But they fade quickly, generally without any particular intervention. Low morale does not deeply disrupt your daily routines … And your good mood is never far away!
Are you wondering if the postpartum period lasts 3 months, 6 months, 1 year? Our article How long does the postpartum period last will clear up all your doubts!
Depression: more intense, but temporary
Depression is more pronounced than the blues, as it can last for several days or even weeks. However, it remains temporary. It results in:
- a loss of energy;
- a feeling of emptiness;
- difficulty experiencing pleasure.
Anxiety: A Stress-Related Condition
Anxiety is a condition that is frequently triggered by a higher than usual level of stress . It is accompanied by physical symptoms, such as:
- muscle tension;
- rapid breathing;
- palpitations.
Despite the discomfort it generates, this feeling of worry or fear also remains occasional. However, you could also be affected by anxiety disorders that are persistent. If this is the case, do not hesitate to seek help from a doctor or psychologist.
Depression: A Serious Psychological Disorder
Depression is not like the "classic" low mood . It is a long-term condition that profoundly affects all aspects of your life. It manifests itself through:
- constant mental and physical fatigue ;
- intense sadness;
- a general loss of interest;
- physical disorders (sleep, appetite, libido).
It requires professional help , as it can have a significant impact on your life.
What are the causes of low morale ?
There can be many causes of low morale ! By identifying them, you will be able to better understand your state... And, of course, act better.
Psychological factors
Certain specific psychological factors , linked to life events, can influence our morale and our good mood :
- Chronic stress : Being overexposed to stress for a long time can deplete emotional (and physical) resources. The result: you feel discouraged, far from being in great shape .
- Difficult life events : Emotional shocks (bereavement, emotional conflicts , separation or job loss) can cause a temporary – or sometimes even prolonged – drop in morale .
- Mental fatigue and cognitive overload : Being constantly stressed, whether by work or personal responsibilities, can cause mental exhaustion and an inability to manage emotions.
Physical factors
Low morale can be linked to physical disorders, such as:
- Lack of physical exercise : Insufficient physical activity can affect the production of endorphins, one of the happy hormones that promotes a feeling of well-being. And therefore have a significant impact on your morale.
- Nutritional deficiencies : the absence of healthy food on your plate can cause physical fatigue . And have direct consequences… On your bad mood !
- Medical conditions : Certain pathologies such as anemia or chronic infections can also cause fatigue. And affect your morale.
What if it was a hormonal imbalance?
Hormones are chemicals produced by endocrine glands, such as the thyroid, adrenal glands, pancreas, testes in men, or ovaries in women. They play a crucial role in regulating mood, stress, and emotional stability. When hormone levels are disrupted, it can lead to symptoms of depression, anxiety, and fatigue.
However, hormonal fluctuations are numerous in a woman's life: they can for example be linked to pregnancy, postpartum, menopause or even the menstrual cycle. They can then make your good mood disappear for a while, like the famous baby blues for example, which affects many young mothers.
Here are some examples of links between hormonal imbalances and low morale :
- Serotonin and dopamine : These hormones, which are also part of what are called "happy hormones", are involved in regulating mood. For example, a low level of serotonin, produced by our brain from an amino acid, tryptophan, can lead to feelings of sadness and depression.
- Cortisol : This is the stress hormone. Excess cortisol, often caused by prolonged stress or hormonal disorders, can alter mood and lead to symptoms of depression, irritability and fatigue.
- Estrogen and progesterone : These female hormones not only influence fertility and the menstrual cycle, but also mood. An imbalance, especially during pregnancy, menopause, or due to hormonal disorders, can cause significant emotional fluctuations, including low mood and depressive symptoms.
- Thyroid : Thyroid hormones regulate metabolism and energy. A malfunction of the thyroid gland, such as in hypothyroidism, can lead to fatigue, depression, and decreased motivation.
- Testosterone : In men, decreased testosterone levels can be associated with loss of energy, motivation, depressed mood, and difficulty concentrating.
How to get your morale back?
You can get your super good mood back by simply changing a few daily habits. We give you our 10 best tips to fill up on energy and (re)boost your mental well-being!
-
Get enough sleep and maintain a sleep routine
Quality sleep is essential to restore your body and mind. So, always give yourself a good night's sleep ! Also, try to go to bed and get up at regular times to help your body clock . -
Do sports
We told you… It’s important to regulate your endorphin production. A simple 30-minute walk every day is enough to give it a boost . Your morale will thank you! -
Expose yourself to natural light
Lack of light, especially in winter, can “give you the blues”. So, enjoy the sun whenever possible to shake off your bad mood . -
Adopt a balanced diet
Choose foods rich in vitamins and minerals: fruits, vegetables, dairy products , whole grains, lean proteins and good fats. -
Consume booster foods
Add mood- boosting foods to your diet like Omega 3 ( fatty fish , nuts), dark chocolate (rich in magnesium), and chia seeds. Yum! -
Practice relaxation techniques
Try meditating or doing yoga. Practice some breathing exercises: you will send positive vibes to your mind. -
Maintaining your social network
And we're not talking about TikTok! Talk about your emotions with loved ones, stay social with friends, or join groups that share your interests. In short: don't stay alone. -
Set small goals
Long live small victories! By setting yourself simple tasks and celebrating them every day, you will regain confidence and motivation. -
Limit alcohol and caffeine consumption
These substances can disrupt sleep and make your irritability or anxiety worse. -
Consult a professional if necessary
If the low morale persists, seek professional help to identify the source of the problem and find suitable solutions.
Did you also know that there are vitamins that are good for your morale? Vitamin D, for example, acts on the functioning of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, while vitamin B6 plays a positive role in anxiety and depression. Saffron, for its part, has a positive impact in the management of anxiety and depression.
So, if you suspect a deficiency or feel like you need a boost, ask for a blood test or a hormonal assessment and think about supplementing. Our postpartum food supplement is particularly ideal for all women who have just given birth but also for those who need emotional support.
Low morale is a common experience that can affect everyone at different times in life. But now you know how to identify its causes and recognize its symptoms. You can therefore put in place concrete actions to regain your well-being. So, take care of yourself, because your morale is the key to your daily balance!
