Researched by Aditi.R.Nair
Abstract
Everyone experiences sadness from time to time. Understandably, many people confuse this for depression due to a lack of awareness and false trends on social media. This brings us to the topic of this paper: Am I depressed or just sad?
Myths
Sadness and depression are not two different things rather sadness is a component of depression. This means that one can be sad but not necessarily depressed. Depression is extreme sadness or despair that lasts more than days. It interferes with the activities of daily life and can even cause physical pain. There are many other common misconceptions about depression such as:
1. Depression is only triggered after a sad or traumatic event: Depression is not a situational disorder; it’s a clinical and chronic illness. Researchers believe several factors can contribute to depression. Trauma, genetics, life circumstances, brain changes, other medical conditions, and drug and alcohol misuse are just a few.
2. People with depression aren’t normal: Approximately 280 million people in the world have depression. (According to Boulder Community Health) They often struggle, silently. You can be part of the solution for improving how our community views or talks about mental illness. Depression does not discriminate, and it affects people in different ways.
Destigmatizing mental illness is a wonderful step in bringing hope to people.
3. Family history guarantees depression: Genetics certainly plays a role in the development of depression. According To Medical Health New people who have a first-degree relative living with depression are 2–3 times more likely to develop
depression themselves. However, there are people with such a family history who do not develop depression. On the other hand, people with no family history of depression also develop the condition. Whether a person develops depression can also depend on different environmental, psychological, and biological factors. Therefore, just because a person’s relatives have experienced depression does not automatically indicate they will develop it themselves.
Symptoms
Symptoms of depression may include:
● constant feelings of sadness
● irritability
● fatigue
● changes in sleeping or eating patterns
● difficulty concentrating
● loss of interest and enthusiasm for things which used to provide pleasure
● feelings of deep, unwarranted guilt
● physical symptoms, such as headaches or body aches that do not have a specific cause
● feelings of worthlessness
● constant thoughts about death
● suicidal thoughts or actions
If you are sad, you may have some of these symptoms, but they shouldn’t last more than two weeks. Suicidal thoughts are a sign of depression, not sadness.
What Next?
If you seem to identify yourself in this article then you might have depression rather than sadness. Depression is very much real. It is a multifaceted issue that is hard to deal with by yourself. Having the support of near and dear ones during this time can greatly help be it your parents, relatives or friends. If you suspect your near and dear ones are dealing with the same, support them, talk to them, and help them by being understanding and supportive.
Therapy and lifestyle changes can also prove to be of great help. Depression can often cause uncontrollable anger issues as well.
If therapy is not your piece of cake, then it's fine! There's always help available. Check out Where Emotions Flow’s Serenity Cove or Peer Support Sessions where you feel heard and understood (And It's Free!!!).
References
Boulder Community Health (2024).Dispelling Depression Myths. Retrieved from Dispelling Depression Myths
Corey W (2023). Is It Depression or Sadness? Learn the Signs. Healthline Retrieved from Depression vs. Sadness: What’s the Difference? 10 myths about depression (2022). MedicalNewsToday Retrieved from Depression: Myths and misconceptions
Overcoming depression: How psychologists help with depressive disorders (2023). American Psychology Association Retrieved from Overcoming depression: How psychologists help with depressive disorders
Depression Treatment (2024). Helpguide.org Retrieved from Depression Treatment - HelpGuide.org
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