Persistent Low Mood
Feeling sad, empty or hopeless most of the day, nearly every day.
Conditions · Depression
Persistent low mood, emptiness and losing interest in life are real, and you don't have to carry them alone. Talk to qualified professionals, online or in person.
Heavy days don't define you.
Understanding depression
Everyone has low days. Depression is when a low mood, emptiness or loss of interest lasts for weeks, and starts getting in the way of study, work, sleep or relationships.
Depression affects people of every age, from teenagers to older adults.
It's a health concern, and you can't simply "snap out of it".
With the right support, many people find their energy and interest return.
Signs and symptoms
You don't need a diagnosis to ask for help. If several of these have lasted two weeks or more, we're here.
Feeling sad, empty or hopeless most of the day, nearly every day.
Things you used to enjoy no longer feel worth the effort.
Feeling tired even after rest, and everyday tasks feel heavy.
Sleeping much more than usual, or lying awake unable to rest.
Feeling worthless, blaming yourself, or finding it hard to focus and decide.
Pulling away from friends, family or activities, and wanting to be alone.
These signs aren't a diagnosis. Changes in appetite or weight can also be part of depression. If you're thinking of harming yourself, call your local emergency number or Tele-MANAS (free, 24/7) at 14416 right away.
When it feels too heavy
Depression can sometimes bring thoughts that life isn't worth living, or of harming yourself. These thoughts are a sign that you need support now. They are not a sign of weakness, and you deserve help.
If you're in danger right now
Worried about someone?
Ask them directly how they're doing, and listen without judging. Asking about suicide does not put the idea in someone's head. Help them reach a professional or a helpline, and don't leave them alone if they're in immediate danger.
Different forms
Not sure which describes you? You don't have to work it out alone. We'll help you understand it.
A low mood or loss of interest that lasts most of the day, nearly every day, for two weeks or more.
A milder low mood that lingers for months or years, so it can start to feel like "just how you are".
Low mood, anxiety or feeling disconnected in the weeks and months after having a baby. Pregnancy mental health
Sadness that doesn't lift after a loss, a break-up, a move or another big life change.
How we help
Your professional will explain the options. Medication is only suggested if it's clinically appropriate, and always discussed with you first.
Understand what you're experiencing and get personalised guidance, including a psychiatric assessment if it's needed.
Learn more →A safe, structured space to understand low mood and the thought patterns that keep it going, at your pace.
Learn more →Caring support for stress, relationships, academics, self-esteem and life transitions.
Learn more →Self-care tools like mindfulness and emotional grounding for between sessions.
Learn more →Day to day
Gentle habits can support you alongside professional care. They're not a substitute for it, and it's okay if some days you can only manage one.
Explore Tann aur MannWaking at a similar time and planning one small task can give the day some shape.
A short walk or some time in daylight can lift your energy, even slightly.
Even one message or call to someone you trust can help you feel less alone.
It can feel like relief, but it often deepens low mood and disturbs sleep.
Choose a psychiatrist or psychologist, online or in person. It only takes a few steps.
Talk openly in a private session, with no pressure to have the right words.
Therapy, counselling, medical guidance or self-care tools.
Follow-ups for as long as you find them helpful.
Free self-check
Take the PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire), a short, well-researched questionnaire. You get your score, what it means and a report you can share with a professional.
9 questions · about 3 minutes · private, scored on your device
A self-check is a screen, not a diagnosis.
FAQ
Sadness usually eases with time. Depression tends to last most of the day, nearly every day, for two weeks or more, and makes everyday life harder. You don't need to be sure before reaching out. A professional can help you understand what you're going through.
No. You can book if you're struggling, unsure what's wrong, or just want someone to talk to.
Not always. Medication is only suggested if it's clinically appropriate, and always discussed with you first. Talking therapies and counselling are an important part of support. If you already take medication, don't stop it suddenly without talking to your doctor.
Many people find that their mood, energy and interest in life improve with the right support. Recovery looks different for everyone, and we go at your pace.
Listen without judging, let them know you care, and gently encourage them to talk to a professional. If you're worried they might harm themselves, ask them directly and help them get support right away.
Often, yes, especially for low mood, stress and anxiety. We also offer in-person care and will help you choose what suits you.
No. In a crisis, call your local emergency number (112 in India) or Tele-MANAS at 14416.
Get in touch
Book a consultation and we'll help you choose the right support.
InnerWhispers isn't an emergency service. In a crisis, call your local emergency number or Tele-MANAS at 14416.