Sometimes you have days where your alarm goes off and all you want to do is pull the covers back over your head. Everything, from getting out of bed to replying to a text, can feel like a huge mountain you just don’t have the energy to climb.
For many people, this feels familiar, and it’s completely normal to feel worse on some days than on others. Still, being stuck in a slump can be really difficult. In this blog, we explain what a slump actually is, why you might be feeling this way, and what you can do to regain a sense of control. Because even if now it doesn’t feels like it: you don’t have to figure this out alone.
What exactly is feeling down?
Feeling down is actually a signal from your body or your mind that you are ‘burned out’ for a moment. It is nothing serious. It is actually a feeling that many young people recognize. You can spot a slump by:
- Always being tired: Even if you have slept all night, you wake up tired.
- No fun: You don’t feel like doing things you normally enjoy (gaming, meeting up, sports).
- Kort lontje: Je bent sneller geïrriteerd of je wilt je juist helemaal afsluiten van de wereld
- Listlessness: The feeling that everything must be done and nothing is allowed
There is a difference between a few bad days and a slump that lasts longer. A slump usually lasts from a few days to two weeks. Does it last longer? Then it is good to be alert.
Why do you feel this way?
Sometimes there is a clear reason for your slump, but it can also come out of nowhere. Both situations are okay. Common reasons are:
- Stress: Pressure from school, your studies, or your part-time job
- Social media: The constant pressure to show that you are doing great, while you actually feel different.
- Trouble with others: Arguing with your parents or insecurity about friendships
- The weather: In autumn or winter, many people suffer from the ‘winter blues’ due to the lack of sunlight.
- Changes: Moving, a breakup, or the loss of someone you care about
You don’t always need a ‘good’ reason to feel miserable. The feeling is there, and that is reason enough to pay attention to it.
What can you try yourself?
When you are feeling down, you often have the tendency to do absolutely nothing. However, taking small steps is often the best way to break the cycle.
- Small steps: You don’t have to change the whole world right away. Make a deal with yourself: “Today I will put on my shoes and walk outside for 10 minutes.” That is enough.
- Maintain structure: Try to get up and eat at a certain time every day. Routines calm your brain.
- Scroll less: Social media can make you feel like you are the only one who feels this way. Put your phone away for an afternoon.
- Keep moving: A bike ride or walk helps to stimulate the chemicals in your brain that make you happy.
- Talking: It sounds simple, but it helps. Tell your friends, a teacher, or your parents that you’re not feeling your best right now.
When is it more than feeling down?
Sometimes you can’t solve it yourself, and that’s perfectly fine. It’s actually very brave if you dare to admit that. Speak up if:
- You feel gloomy or empty for longer than two weeks
- You withdraw more and more and avoid social contact
- Your grades at school drop or you stop going to work
- You have thoughts about self-harm or no longer see the point of living
Don’t wait until it’s bad enough. You deserve to feel good again, no matter how big or small your problem seems.
How can @ease help you?
At @ease, we are here for you. It is a place where you can come and talk without an appointment.
- Free and anonymous: You don’t have to give your name if you don’t want to.
- Peers: You talk to young people (peers) who understand what you are going through.
- No hassle: No waiting lists, no files, and no diagnosis. Just a listening ear.
Sometimes a conversation is enough to see things a little more clearly again. And if more is needed, we will look together with you at what the next step might be.
Frequently asked questions
Usually a few days to two weeks. If it lasts longer and you notice that it is really hindering you, it is wise to talk to someone about it.
A slump often passes on its own, and you still have moments where you can laugh or enjoy things. With depression, the sadness tends to be much deeper, lasts longer, and is often accompanied by problems with sleep and concentration.
You are always allowed to do so, but it doesn’t have to be immediately. You can also drop by @ease first to unburden yourself. Seeing your GP is especially a good step if you realize that you need professional help.
Absolutely! We are here for anyone who needs a listening ear, even if you are already seeing a psychologist or are on a waiting list.
When life’s a little off
Feeling down is human, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Small steps make a difference, and talking is often the first step to feeling better.
Do you want to share your story? Then drop by a location near you or start a chat.