Wellbeing topics

Low Mood and Depression Risk

Persistent low mood in teens may also appear as irritability, loss of interest, withdrawal or changes in sleep and eating. This page offers safety guidance, not a diagnosis.

For adult caregivers of 14–17-year-olds | Research draft | Not diagnostic

What caregivers may notice

  • Persistent low mood, irritability or loss of interest
  • Changes in sleep, eating, energy, school or self-care
  • Hopelessness, self-harm, suicide talk or farewell behaviour

What caregivers can do

  1. Choose a calm moment and listen without comparison or criticism
  2. Ask directly and calmly about current safety
  3. Help the young person stay near a safe adult while arranging qualified support

When to seek more help

  • Changes persist, worsen or significantly affect daily life
  • Self-harm or suicide concerns need prompt professional assessment
  • A plan, preparation or inability to stay safe requires immediate emergency help