I feel down, where could this be coming from and how should I react?

Do you sometimes feel drained, without energy or desire? These moments of blues can happen to anyone. But why do some days feel so heavy, when everything was fine yesterday? Behind a simple dip in morale can lie 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 and taking care of your mental health. Discover practical tips in this article to regain your momentum and say goodbye to gloomy thoughts!

Low spirits: definition and symptoms

Knowing how to recognize the symptoms of low spirits is important to better cope with them and prevent them from worsening.

What is a dip in morale?

A dip in morale is a temporary emotional state where one can feel sadness, weariness, negative emotions, and discouragement. Everyone can experience a bout of blues at any time. For example, following:

• a stressful event;
• a hormonal imbalance;
• or a simple lack of sleep.

Rest assured: feeling down in the dumps is temporary. And, with a few adjustments to your lifestyle habits, you can quickly regain your good mood.

Symptoms of a dip in morale

The blues manifest in various ways. And they can affect both the body and the mind:

• Disturbed appetite: Have you lost your appetite or do you experience food cravings? These are signs of a potential need for comfort.
• Lack of energy: Chronic fatigue, even after a good night's sleep, should also alert you.
• Sleep disturbances: You have trouble falling asleep or suffer from repeated nighttime awakenings.
• Low motivation: You feel unable to find pleasure or interest in activities 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, low spirits, anxiety and depression: how to differentiate them?

Blues, low spirits, depressive episode, chronic depression… Be careful, all these emotional states are frequently and confusingly associated with dips in morale. However, each has its own characteristics, intensity, and lasting impact on daily life.

The blues: a transient state

The blues are a form of temporary sadness, often due to a specific event. Such as, among others:

• a disappointment;
• postpartum;
• family concerns;
• a change of season.

The blues manifest as a feeling of melancholy and demotivation. But they fade quickly, generally without specific intervention. Low spirits do not profoundly disturb your daily routines... And your good mood is never far away!

Are you wondering if postpartum lasts 3 months, 6 months, 1 year? Our article How long does postpartum last will clear up all your doubts!

Low spirits: more intense, but temporary

Low spirits are more pronounced than the blues, as they can last several days, or even several weeks. However, they remain temporary. They result in:

• a loss of energy;
• a feeling of emptiness;
• difficulty experiencing pleasure.

Anxiety: a stress-related state

Anxiety is a state that often triggers due to a higher level of stress than usual. 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 temporary. However, you could also be affected by anxiety disorders, which 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 "classic" dips in morale. It is a long-lasting pathology that profoundly affects all aspects of your life. It manifests as:

• constant mental and physical fatigue;
• intense sadness;
• a generalized 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 a dip in morale?

The causes of a dip in morale can be multiple! By identifying them, you will better understand your state... And, naturally, act more effectively.

Psychological factors

Certain specific psychological factors, linked to life events, can influence our morale and our good mood:

• Chronic stress: being overexposed to prolonged stress can deplete emotional (and physical) resources. Result: you feel discouraged, far from being in good shape.
• Difficult life events: emotional shocks (bereavement, moral conflicts, separation or job loss) can cause a temporary - or sometimes prolonged - dip in morale.
• Mental fatigue and cognitive overload: being constantly solicited, whether by work or personal responsibilities, can cause mental exhaustion and an inability to manage emotions.

Physical factors

Dips in 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 happiness hormones that promotes a feeling of well-being. And therefore have a significant impact on your morale.
• Nutritional deficiencies: the absence of a healthy diet in 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 lead to fatigue. And affect your morale.

What if it was a hormonal imbalance?

Hormones are chemical substances 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 disturbed, this 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 new mothers.

Here are some examples of links between hormonal imbalances and dips in morale:

1. Serotonin and dopamine: These hormones, which are also part of what are called "happiness hormones", are involved in mood regulation. For example, a low level of serotonin, produced by our brain from an amino acid, tryptophan, can lead to a feeling of sadness and depression.
2. Cortisol: This is the stress hormone. An excess of cortisol, often caused by prolonged stress or hormonal disorders, can alter mood and lead to symptoms of depression, irritability, and fatigue.
3. Estrogens and progesterone: These female hormones influence not only fertility and the menstrual cycle, but also mood. An imbalance, particularly during pregnancy, menopause, or due to hormonal disorders, can cause significant emotional fluctuations, including dips in morale and depressive symptoms.
4. Thyroid: Thyroid hormones regulate metabolism and energy. A dysfunction of the thyroid gland, as in hypothyroidism, can lead to fatigue, depression, and a lack of motivation.
5. Testosterone: In men, a decrease in testosterone levels can be associated with a loss of energy, motivation, a depressed mood, and concentration problems.

How to boost your mood?

You can regain your super good mood by simply changing a few daily habits or by adopting natural solutions. We give you our 10 best tips to recharge your energy and (re)boost your mental well-being!

1. Sleep enough and maintain a sleep routine
   Quality sleep is essential to restore body and mind. So, always allow yourself a good night's sleep! Also try to go to bed and wake up at regular times to help your biological clock.
2. Exercise
   As we told you... sport helps stimulate the natural production of endorphins. A simple 30-minute daily walk is enough to give it a boost. Your morale will thank you!
3. 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.
4. Adopt a balanced diet
   Choose foods rich in vitamins and minerals: fruits, vegetables, dairy products, whole grains, lean proteins, and good fats.
5. Consume mood-boosting foods
   Add foods that promote good mood to your diet, such as Omega 3 (fatty fish, walnuts), dark chocolate (rich in magnesium), and chia seeds. Yum!
6. Practice relaxation techniques
   Try meditation or yoga. Practice some breathing or mindfulness exercises: you'll send positive vibes to your mind.
7. Maintain your social network
   And we're not talking about TikTok! Talk about your emotions with loved ones, maintain your social contacts with friends, or join groups that share your interests. In short: don't be alone.
8. Set small goals
   Hooray for small victories! By setting simple tasks and celebrating them daily, you'll regain confidence and motivation.
9. Limit alcohol and caffeine consumption
   These substances can disrupt sleep and worsen your irritability or anxiety.
10. Consult a professional if needed
    If your low spirits persist, turn to professional help to identify the source of the problem and find appropriate solutions.

Did you also know that there are vitamins that are good for your mood? For example, vitamin B6 contributes to normal psychological function (EFSA ID 76). Saffron, on the other hand, helps maintain a positive mood and supports emotional balance.

So, if you suspect a deficiency or feel you need a boost, ask for a blood test or hormonal check-up and consider supplementing. We have formulated Moral Boost, our food supplement for stress and fatigue, to contribute to normal psychological function and the reduction of fatigue. If you are going through a difficult period after childbirth or need emotional support, talk to your doctor.

Feeling down 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 take concrete actions to regain your well-being. So, take care of yourself, because your morale is the key to your daily balance!