Red flags & when to go in person for Low Mood

Audience: adult

Low mood is a common experience that can affect daily life, but it is often manageable with support and care. Telemedicine can help you discuss your feelings, get advice, and explore options for improving your mood. However, some signs suggest that in-person care is important to ensure safety and proper treatment. Knowing when to seek urgent or face-to-face help can protect your health. This guide explains red flags to watch for, what telemedicine can and cannot do for low mood, and how to prepare for and follow up after a tele-visit. Remember, telemedicine is a helpful tool but not a replacement for emergency or thorough in-person evaluation when needed.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide — seek emergency care immediately.
• Sudden severe mood changes that impair daily functioning — see a healthcare provider in person promptly.
• Experiencing hallucinations or severe confusion — urgent in-person evaluation needed.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing mild to moderate low mood symptoms.
• Providing coping strategies and self-care advice.
• Monitoring ongoing treatment and medication side effects.
• Referring to mental health specialists or support services.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Managing suicidal thoughts or behaviors requiring emergency intervention.
• Diagnosing or treating severe mental health crises.
• Performing physical examinations or urgent medical tests.
• Administering emergency treatments or medications.

Understanding Low Mood

Low mood means feeling sad, down, or less interested in usual activities. It can happen to anyone and may be temporary or last longer. Causes include stress, life changes, health problems, or sometimes no clear reason. Low mood often improves with time, support, and self-care.

When to Use Telemedicine for Low Mood

Telemedicine can help you talk about your feelings, get advice on coping strategies, and discuss treatment options like therapy or medication. It is useful for regular check-ins or when symptoms are mild to moderate and you have no urgent concerns.

Red Flags: When to Seek In-Person Care Immediately

Certain signs mean you should seek urgent in-person care or emergency help:

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

Before your tele-visit:

After Your Telemedicine Visit

After your visit:

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, private location for your tele-visit.
• Ensure your device (phone, tablet, or computer) is charged and connected to the internet.
• Write down your symptoms, concerns, and any questions.
• List current medications, supplements, and treatments.
• Have a notepad ready to record advice or instructions.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment or advice provided during the visit.
• Schedule follow-up appointments as recommended.
• Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop.
• Seek emergency care if red flag symptoms occur.
• Consider additional support such as counseling or support groups if advised.

FAQs

Can telemedicine help if I feel very sad?

Yes, telemedicine can provide support and advice for feelings of sadness, especially if symptoms are mild or moderate. A healthcare provider can help you explore coping strategies and treatment options.

When should I go to the emergency room for low mood?

If you have thoughts of harming yourself or others, experience severe mood changes that affect your ability to function, or have hallucinations or confusion, seek emergency care immediately.

Can a telemedicine provider prescribe medication for low mood?

Often, yes. Telemedicine providers may prescribe medication if appropriate, but this depends on local regulations and your specific situation. They will discuss the benefits and risks with you.

What if I don't have privacy at home for a tele-visit?

Try to find a quiet and private place, such as your car or a trusted friend's home. Privacy helps you speak openly and get the most from your visit.

How often should I have follow-up visits for low mood?

Follow-up frequency varies based on your symptoms and treatment plan. Your provider will recommend how often to check in to monitor progress and adjust care as needed.

Sources

1. Depression — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Depression Basics — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Depression (Major Depressive Disorder) — Mayo Clinic.
4. Telehealth: Delivering Care Safely During COVID-19 — Agency for Healthcare Research & Quality (AHRQ).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care. If you experience emergency symptoms or red flags, seek immediate in-person care.