Why do I feel down for no reason?

It sounds like you’ve been feeling unhappy for a while and it can be very frustrating to feel so low even when things are going well. The fact that your mood and behaviour are affecting everything, especially your relationship with your boyfriend, must be upsetting. It sounds like you’ve been trying to look at the different area of your life to see if anything is affecting your mood. Often, underlying issues can influence the way people feel, but it is not always easy to identify what these are.

The feelings you describe must be very difficult to deal with and you’re certainly not alone in struggling to cope with these kinds of issues. It’s important you know that there are many organisations and support groups that can provide help. Mind provides advice and support to those affected by depression. Their website is full of useful information, publications and access to a national network of peer support groups.

Although you say your GP isn’t very approachable, if you did feel able to make an appointment it might prove useful because they will be able to better assess the symptoms you’ve been experiencing. If you are diagnosed with depression there are a number of ways of treating it both with and without medication. Your doctor (GP) will be able to discuss the medical and talking treatment options available. If you’re really unhappy about visiting your current GP you could also consider changing doctors.

You mention your diet and it is true that certain food and drinks can affect people’s emotional and mental wellbeing. For example, chocolate, which contains caffeine, can increase feelings of anxiety, as opposed to oily fish (such as mackerel or salmon), which can positively boost your mental health. Eating well can make people feel better physically and this can have an effect on mental wellbeing.

Talking to friends and family can be difficult but if there is someone you trust to confide in, that might help you make a start on understanding your needs. It can also give them a better insight into your situation, so they can offer you more effective support and understanding, which could be beneficial to your relationship with your boyfriend. But this can seem hard, and if you feel uncomfortable talking to your parents or friends, you might like to consider talking in confidence to SANEline on 0300 304 7000. You can talk through any feelings and worries you have with them.