Sadness is a part of depression. Sadness is separate from depression. We can feel sad for extended periods of time without being depressed. If our sadness is persistent for weeks or months on end and is accompanied by other symptoms, we might be experiencing depression. Jumping to either conclusion- we are only sad, or we are depressed- can be a detriment to our mental health.
Experiencing sadness is normal and okay. We don’t have to be ‘depressed’ to be sad, especially not if we think of being ‘depressed’ in a negative context. Sometimes we want to wash away sadness by characterizing it as something else, as if to justify our sadness in order to make it more legitimate. We might want to brush off our depression for sadness in order to avoid shame, stigma, or stereotype.
Receiving a proper diagnosis and treatment for depression is critical if we are actually experiencing clinical depression. Therapy can help us move through an extended period of sadness if we are experiencing that as well. Here are some of the signs to look for:
If you are lacking in energy, feeling fatigued, or are generally exhausted, you may be experiencing depression. Depression is known to rob someone of their energy, as well as their motivation and their interest for participating in life, which can cause them to become more tired.Sadness can be pervasive and overwhelming, but typically doesn’t interfere with your ability to function in daily life for weeks or months on end. Cognitive fog is common with depression. If you’re also feeling cloudy in the head, having difficulty concentrating, or cannot focus, you might be struggling with depression.Your thoughts can lead you down some interesting roads when you are sad. The thoughts of depression can be distinct and obsessive, including thoughts of death, dying, life, and deep existential ponderings.With sadness, you can usually shake these distressing thoughts off. With depression, you cannot make them go away, no matter how intellectually certain you are about them not being true. You might be experiencing apathy, regret, obsession, and other stressful thought processes over which you feel you have no control.If months have passed with little improvement, or if symptoms have worsened, there is a chance you are dealing with more than just sadness.
Don’t let feelings of hopelessness and helplessness get the better of you. Everyone has a story. Your story can change.
Everyone has a story of trauma before they come treatment. Everyone leaves with a story of recovery when they leave treatment. The Guest House Ocala is a private treatment center specializing in the treatment of trauma, addictions, and related mental health issues. Your program of care is customized according to your specific experiences and needs. Our luxury amenities provide the highest level of quality care and comfort so you feel safe, supported, and serene. Call us today for information: 1-855-483-7800