Into all of our lives, a little rain must fall is a way of saying every one of us will experience sadness in our lifetime. It is completely normal and natural. But some people feel something deeper and darker than sadness, and they may feel this way despite no triggering event, such as the loss of a loved one.
Sadness versus Depression: The Real Difference?
As I just mentioned, sadness is a normal reaction to a difficult event in our life. We may feel sad because of a breakup, losing a loved one, or leaving our friends after graduation. In other words, we feel sad about something.
Depression, on the other hand, affects our emotions and how we act and perceive the world. Depression does not require a triggering event. When we’re depressed, we tend to feel upset about any – and everything.
Depression clouds our entire lives. When we’re depressed, nothing feels as enjoyable or worthwhile as it once did. In short, we feel less alive.
SYMPTOMS OF DEPRESSION
To be diagnosed with depression, an individual must be diagnosed with at least five of the following symptoms for a continual duration of at least two weeks:
- An irritable or depressed mood
- A decreased interest in once enjoyable activities
- Changes in weight or appetite
- Changes in our sleep patterns
- Feeling sluggish most days; having a lack of energy and motivation
- Feelings of worthlessness
- Trouble focusing or concentrating
- Suicidal ideation
- The symptoms cause clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning.
- The episode is not attributable to the physiological effects of a substance or another medical condition.
Depression robs you of your life, purpose and happiness, but strategies exist to break free and find peace again, so reach out to me today. Suppose you or a loved one are experiencing depression. In that case, it is very important to seek help from an experienced therapist who has studied and experienced it in my own personal life journey. I would be happy to discuss some treatment options with you. Please reach out to me at (519) 971-4352 or at
Noorayne@chevalierpsychotherapy.com.
SOURCES:
- https://www.healthline.com/health/depression/depression-vs-sadness
- https://screening.mhanational.org/content/am-i-depressed-or-just-sad/
- https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-squeaky-wheel/201510/the-important-difference-between-sadness-and-depression
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