Every so often, when I discuss my struggles with depression, a well-meaning friend or family member will say, “It’s alright. Everyone feels down sometimes.” While I understand this comment is intended to be comforting and to remind me I’m not alone, it often makes me uncomfortable. Instead of expressing my true feelings, I typically smile and nod, inadvertently perpetuating the misconception that depression is merely a temporary emotional state.
Today, I want to change that narrative. I aim to clarify the key differences between sadness and depression—not from a professional standpoint, but as someone who lives with depression.
Understanding Sadness vs. Depression
Sadness is an emotional response; depression is a medical condition. Sadness generally arises from specific events—loss, disappointment, or other external triggers. In contrast, depression is classified as a serious medical disorder, often resulting from a complex mix of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. While external circumstances can exacerbate depressive symptoms, they do not cause the condition itself. It’s crucial to recognize that feeling down temporarily does not equate to the persistent state of depression.
Everyone experiences sadness—it’s a universal human emotion. For instance, I felt sad last week when I lost my job, and I was upset when I had a disagreement with a close friend. These feelings are normal and typically fade with time. However, depression is characterized by a continual presence of symptoms, which might include profound sadness, negative thought patterns, sleep issues, and lack of motivation. Unlike sadness, which can be fleeting, depression often lingers, affecting every aspect of daily life.
Common Misconceptions
It’s also a common misconception that people with depression are always tearful. While crying can occur during major depressive episodes, many individuals experience symptoms like numbness and lethargy instead. This means that while sadness may temporarily rob you of joy, depression can strip away your ability to feel joy at all.
Everyone goes through periods of sadness, which is part of being human. But if you find that feelings of loneliness and despair persist, and you feel disconnected from who you once were, it may be time to seek help. There’s no simply “snapping out of it” when dealing with depression. I’ve tried numerous times to push through my feelings and have faced dark moments, including thoughts of self-harm. When we say, “We’ve all been depressed,” we downplay the seriousness of this illness, making those who suffer feel as if their experience is merely a mental hurdle they should easily overcome.
Resources for Support
For those navigating their own journeys, resources like Resolve can provide valuable insights into family planning and support. Additionally, if you’re interested in understanding more about the emotional aspects of your fertility journey, you might find helpful tips at Make a Mom. And don’t forget to take a break and stretch—consider checking out this link for some helpful exercises.
Summary
Sadness is a temporary emotional response to specific events, while depression is a persistent illness that affects daily life. Understanding these differences is crucial for acknowledging the seriousness of depression and seeking appropriate help.