DEPRESSION COUNSELING

Given that the predominant symptom associated of depression is sadness it can be hard to know the difference between these two psychological states.

Depression is more than just sadness and is a combination of factors including the duration of negative feelings, additional symptoms, bodily impact, and the effect upon the individual’s ability to function in managing activities of daily living.

Sadness is a normal emotion that everyone will experience. It can be triggered for example, by the end of a relationship or death of a loved one. 

Sadness is usually caused by a specific situation, person, or event. This can occur for a day or two but you are able to continue to enjoy things like watching Netflix or talking to friends. 

In comparison, depression can occur without any triggers and can leave one feeling sad or hopeless about everything. This person may have every reason in the world to be happy and yet they lose the ability to experience joy or pleasure.

When you experience sadness you can continue to sleep, remain motivated to do things, and maintain your desire to eat. 

Depression is associated with a disruption of normal eating and sleeping patterns including an lack of desire to get out of bed.