What is the difference between sadness and depression? That can be tricky to discern since one of the symptoms of depression is sadness. So here are some tips to help you tell the difference:
*Sadness is usually about a specific loss of some kind, whereas depression is an undefined sadness, or a sadness about everything.
*Sadness is temporary; we grieve the loss, make psychological, emotional and perhaps physical adjustments, and move back into life. Depression is chronic and can seem to have no end in sight.
*Sadness disrupts our lives and we can have a hard time functioning for a while. Depression can be debilitating, keeping us from sleeping, eating well and being able to work.
*In Sadness there is a sense of going through the pain and coming out the other side. With depression there can be a sense of hopelessness which can lead to suicidal thinking.
If you or someone you love seems to be depressed, getting professional treatment could really help. And counseling can also be beneficial for anyone experiencing sadness from a loss – the treatment is just different.
Until next time…..
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