Mood Changes
Symptoms
- Irritability & Mood Swings - You know when little things just really get on your nerves. One minute you’re fine, the next you’re snapping — and even you’re not sure why. It’s like your mood can flip in a flash.
- Low Mood / Feeling Down - That heavy, stuck feeling where everything just feels a bit... meh. Stuff you usually enjoy doesn’t feel the same, and it’s like there’s a grey cloud following you around, weighing you down.
- Anxiety - That constant “what if?” feeling that won’t leave you alone. You might feel on edge, tense, or like your mind’s always racing —
Support & Guidance
Mental Health Resources
- Mind (Mental health charity offering advice and support)
- Rethink Mental Illness (Helps with recovery and support for mental health issues)
- Samaritans (Free, confidential support for anyone who’s struggling)
- NHS Mental Health Services (Access professional help through the NHS)
You can also find online therapy platforms like BetterHelp UK and the Counselling Directory for connecting with a therapist from the comfort of your own home.
Mood-Boosting Activities
Boost your mood by doing things that make you feel good:
- Dive into a hobby you enjoy - even if you're not feeling it, just do it and feel the difference in your mood.
- Catch up with mates for a chat or a fun activity – whether it’s a coffee or a game of snooker.
- Spend time outside! Take a walk, make a trip to the countryside, or even a day at the beach can really lift your spirits.
Lifestyle Changes To Improve Your Mood
Stress Management Techniques - Think of this as your go-to toolkit for staying calm when life gets a bit much. Here are some simple ways to help manage stress:
Take deep breaths - Slow, deep breathing can really help settle your nerves. Try breathing in through your nose for 4 seconds, hold for 4, then out through your mouth for 4 — repeat a few times when you’re feeling tense.
Talk to someone - Whether it’s a mate, your partner, a family member, or a therapist, sharing what’s on your mind can really help lighten the load.
Do something relaxing - Put on your favourite playlist, run a warm bath, read a good book — anything that helps you unwind and switch off for a bit.
Get moving - A brisk walk, a bike ride, or even dancing around your living room can do wonders. Exercise is one of the best natural stress-busters out there.
Stay on top of your time - Feeling overwhelmed? Try writing down your to-do list and breaking it into smaller, manageable steps. A bit of planning can make a big difference.
Try mindfulness or meditation - Focusing on the here and now can help quiet a busy mind. Apps like Headspace and Calm are great for guided meditations and simple breathing exercises.
Mood Support Supplements
Some people find supplements helpful for supporting their mood, especially during stressful times or darker months. Here are a few that are popular in the UK:
Try Bare Biology, Equazen, or Biocare Omega-3. These are high-quality UK-approved options.
Always choose supplements that are compliant with UK regulations and check for the THR (Traditional Herbal Registration) mark where applicable. Speak to a healthcare professional if you're unsure what’s right for you.
Light Therapy Lamps
If you struggle with the winter blues or Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), light therapy lamps can help lift your mood by mimicking natural sunlight. Look for SAD-approved lamps available in the UK from brands like:
- Lumie (popular UK brand used by the NHS)
- Beurer
- Philips EnergyLight
Using one for just 20–30 minutes a day in the morning can help regulate your body clock and improve mood and energy levels.
Brain (Cognitive) Changes
Symptoms
- Memory Problems - Forget where you left your keys? Struggling to remember names? Everyone gets a bit forgetful now and then, but if it’s happening more often, it could be a sign your brain’s feeling a little overwhelmed.
- Difficulty Concentrating - If you’re finding it hard to focus — whether it’s reading, work, or even following a conversation — that mental fog might be clouding your attention.
- Brain Fog - That fuzzy, slow-thinking feeling where everything feels a bit… foggy. You might feel like you're not quite as sharp or clear-headed as usual.
Support & Guidance
Brain Health Resources - Check out trusted UK sites like:
- NHS – Brain Health
- Age UK for tips on staying mentally sharp at any age.
Cognitive Exercises & Brain Games - Keep your brain active with apps and games like:
- Peak (UK-developed brain training app)
- Elevate
- Lumosity
These help improve memory, focus, and problem-solving skills.
Lifestyle Changes For Brain Health
- Mental Stimulation - Reading, learning something new, doing puzzles, or even learning a new recipe — anything that challenges your brain helps keep it sharp.
- Stay Social - Spending time with others — chatting, sharing stories, playing games — is not just fun, it’s also great for your brain health. Join local clubs, classes, or even online communities to stay connected.
- Eat for Your Brain - A healthy, balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, leafy greens, berries, and antioxidants can really support brain function. Think Mediterranean-style eating — oily fish, nuts, olive oil, whole grains, and loads of colourful veg.
Recommended Products
Omega-3 Fatty Acids - Support brain and heart health with high-quality omega-3s from UK brands like:
- Bare Biology (Life & Soul Omega-3)
- Biocare Omega-3 Liquid or Capsules
- Healthspan Super Strength Omega-3
Brain Health Supplements - These can include ingredients like Ginkgo Biloba, Phosphatidylserine, or Lion’s Mane Mushroom — just be sure they’re available and safe in the UK:
- MindCare BALANCE by Igennus
- Neurozan by Vitabiotics
- Revive Active Mastermind
Always check for UK/EU regulations, especially for herbal or nootropic supplements. Look for GMP certification or the THR mark.