When Does Sadness Become More?

Sadness hurts. It is a deep, often helpless-feeling, pain. It can come on like a wave because of something you saw, read, heard, or something that happened to you or someone you love. Sometimes you might feel sad and not even know why you feel that way. 

Sadness Vs Depression

But when does sadness become more? When is it depression? What is the difference between the two? 

Sadness can feel a lot like depression, but it is temporary and circumstantial. Sadness is usually related to something in the moment. It will pass as your brain shifts to something different. It comes and it goes. 

Depression is more chronic. It can rear its ugly head whenever it wants. It is usually marked by persistent sadness that lasts longer than two weeks. It could be a beautiful sunny day, everything could be going right in your life, and depression could be in full force. That is what makes depression so serious. 

Low Mood

Depression, much like sadness, is a state of low mood. People who are depressed may feel sad, anxious, empty, hopeless, worried, helpless, guilty, irritable, hurt, or restless. They may lose interest in some of their favorite activities, have a loss of appetite or overeat, have difficulty concentrating, trouble remembering things, or struggle with making decisions. They may also contemplate or attempt suicide.

Those suffering from depression often find it difficult to get out of bed and do basic activities. It may seem like a huge task to take a shower or walk to the mailbox.  

Sadness is often connected to a life change of some kind and is without thoughts of suicide. Someone who is sad might not care to take care of themselves for the time being, but a person who is depressed will have a significant reduction in energy and general well-being. 

If you are someone who knowingly struggles with depression, feelings of sadness can indicate the beginning of a depressive episode and are important to recognize. 

Help Is Available

Regardless if you are sad or depressed—or not sure—getting help from a licensed professional can be beneficial. Talk therapy and/or medications and lifestyle changes can assist in keeping depression symptoms at bay, and establish healthy coping mechanisms. 

Depression and sadness can both lead a person to feel alone, but they are not. More than 300 million people worldwide suffer from depression. There are resources available to help. No one needs to suffer in silence. 

The psychologists at Wellness Psychological Services are uniquely and expertly specialized in helping you cope with symptoms of depression. We welcome the chance to discuss an individualized plan to meet your needs. Contact us for an appointment anytime.