Sadness vs. Depression
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Depression is more than a feeling of sadness, it is a very common and serious medical illness.
Sadness may feel overwhelming at times, but you will still have moments when you are able to laugh or participate in activities you enjoy. Depression is different from sadness. It affects all aspects of your life. It may be hard or even impossible to find enjoyment in anything. Depression is an illness, not an emotion. Depression isn't your fault or the result of a personal defect. It isn't a weakness and you can't just snap out of it like a bad mood or a daydream. Depression can affect anyone, no matter their age, gender, or life circumstances. Over 21 million Americans experience depression each year. Fortunately, depression can be treated. But you will need to take an active role in treating your depression. |
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What Causes Depression?
Research shows that depression often follows a significant change in a person's life like a death in the family, a disagreement with a close friend or significant other, or another major life change: moving to a new place, losing a job or starting a new one, the beginning or ending of a marriage or other relationship, or becoming physically ill. We are all capable of experiencing depression at some point in our lives.
Mood and life situations are connected. It is important to make a practical link between a person's mood and significant life events that may trigger the onset of depression.
The purpose of counseling for depression is to work through unresolved feelings stemming from significant life events or changes, build social skills, and develop the tools needed to mitigate the symptoms of depression if they reappear. If an individual can solve the life problem, depressive symptoms should resolve as well. The link between depression and "trigger events" is supported by research and multiple clinical trials.
Mood and life situations are connected. It is important to make a practical link between a person's mood and significant life events that may trigger the onset of depression.
The purpose of counseling for depression is to work through unresolved feelings stemming from significant life events or changes, build social skills, and develop the tools needed to mitigate the symptoms of depression if they reappear. If an individual can solve the life problem, depressive symptoms should resolve as well. The link between depression and "trigger events" is supported by research and multiple clinical trials.
Symptoms of Depression
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Depression can lead to a loss of interest in day-to-day activities, feelings of emptiness or hopelessness, and emotional outbursts. It can cause a variety of emotional and physical symptoms that greatly affect your ability to function. To be diagnosed with depression, symptoms must be present for at least two weeks.
Unfortunately, many people with depression to do not seek help and will instead blame themselves, ignore the symptoms, or self-medicate with food, drugs, or alcohol. It is important to recognize the symptoms of depression and seek help before the symptoms grow worse. If you are having thoughts or suicide or self-harm, please seek help right away. Reach out to the new Suicide and Crisis Lifeline to speak with a mental health professional. Call or text 988 
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If you have been experiencing some of the following symptoms almost every day for at least two weeks, you may be suffering from depression:
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