Understanding the difference between Sadness and Depression

It's hard for us to tell if we are just sad or we are depressed. Even though sadness and depression share some traits but still, they are not the same.

Sadness is a primary symptom of depression. When bad things happen, we all feel sad or blue. A breakup, the loss of a loved one, or just a bad day can all cause feelings of sadness. It's ok to feel sad. Sadness is a healthy human emotion that we experience when we face a difficult situation in our lives. We usually cope up and recover from sadness without any treatment.  Depression, on the other hand, is a psychological disorder which lasts for at least two weeks, which affects a person's ability to work, carry out daily activities and it also affects persons personal and social relationship.   Sadness is a symptom of depression, but it is not the only one. Following signs and symptoms will help you understand the difference between depression and sadness:

A person with depression:

• Constantly feels sad. 

• Might experience unusual feelings of worthlessness, guilt, anger, and irritability. 

• Might lose interest in activities that used to be enjoyable, such as former hobbies, pastimes, social activities, or sex. 

• Might have trouble concentrating, making decisions, or remembering things. 

• Significant weight loss or weight gain. 

• Might have sleeping difficulties or sometimes sleep too much.

• Might engage in reckless behaviors such as substance abuse, compulsive gambling, reckless driving, or dangerous sports. 

• Constant thoughts about death.

• Physical symptoms, such as headaches or body aches that do not have a specific cause. 

A person who is feeling sad:

• Might express emotion through crying and by spending some time alone.

• Maintains a regular eating and sleeping pattern.

• Can function daily activities without any difficulties.

• Starts feeling better in a few days.

•  No suicidal thoughts. 

It is important to understand that everyone is different. Not every person who is depressed might have all of the above symptoms. The severity of the symptoms might also differ from person to person. 

To cope up with depression, reach out to other people for help. The simple act of talking to someone face to face about how you feel can be an enormous help. Try to keep yourself engaged in your daily activities. Take a short walk, put some music on, and exercise. Start with small activities and build up from there.

Still, if you feel like the support from family, friends, and positive lifestyle changes aren't enough, it may be time to seek help from a mental health professional.