What should you do today to lift your mood?

Feeling flat, restless or a little low? Small actions can shift a mood, often before motivation shows up. That idea comes from behavioral activation, a well-studied approach for low mood. Answer eight quick questions about how you feel right now and get one simple thing to try today.

Just for reflection and learning — not a test or a diagnosis.

Keep going on WhySigh

Activity Garden Walking Path Practice Depression test (PHQ-9)

More quizzes

What kind of rest do you need? Fight, flight, freeze or fawn: how do you react to stress? Which calming practice fits you? Are you a morning person or a night owl? What's your coping style? What kind of self-care do you need most? What's your attachment style? Introvert, extrovert or ambivert?All quizzes →

Sources

National Institute of Mental Health. Caring for Your Mental Health.

Common questions

What can I do right now to feel better?

Small actions help most: a short walk, a message to a friend, a few slow breaths, finishing one small task or doing something you enjoy. You don't have to wait until you feel motivated.

Why does doing something help when I don't feel like it?

In behavioral activation, a well-studied approach for low mood, action often comes first and motivation follows. Doing a small, meaningful activity can lift mood more than waiting for the mood to change.

When is low mood more than a bad day?

If you feel down, hopeless or lose interest in things for two weeks or more, talk with your doctor. You can also take the free PHQ-9 depression test on WhySigh.