Am I Sad Or Depressed?

Dear Dr. LeCrone:

Will you please explain the difference between sadness and depression?

-A reader in Texas

Dear Reader:

Sadness is an emotion, often resulting from loss that humans undergo from time to time. People who are sad feel a normal reaction to negative, painful experiences or events which are usually resolved in a relatively short period of time. During this time, the individual usually continues to function in the everyday experiences of living. Sadness is sometimes described as feeling miserable, blue, emotionally let down, down in the dumps or sorrowful.

Clinical depression is a mood disorder, a type of illness lasting for weeks, months or years, with symptoms which may include:

• Chronic fatigue despite adequate rest.

• Sleep difficulties including insomnia, the need for increased sleep, early morning awakening or problems remaining asleep.

• Prolonged crying spells and mood swings.

• Diminished interest in sex.

• Tension headaches, backaches or other aches and pains without a medical explanation.

• Lack of enthusiasm or enjoyment in things that were formally of interest.

• Impaired concentration, slowed thinking, inability to make decisions and get things done.

• Increased or decreased appetite.

• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness and believing that life may not be worth living.

• Recurrent thoughts of death, suicidal thoughts, attempts or plans to end one’s life.

A person who is sad does not typically experience these symptoms.
Factors leading to clinical depression may include:

Poor self-esteem, an unhappy childhood, being in abusive relationships, alcohol and drug abuse, a family history of depression, and certain medical conditions.

Ineffective, unhealthy and unsuccessful movement through the grieving process, such as after loss through death, can lead to prolonged periods of depression, bereavement and mourning.

Feelings of entrapment, such as in a job or relationship, can lead to feelings of helplessness and hopelessness, two conditions frequently felt by those suffering from depression.

Left untreated, prolonged depression often leads to physical illness as the body's immune system becomes impaired. Depressed individuals frequently suffer from impaired judgment and decision making in relationships, business and financial matters.

Don't be ashamed or embarrassed to admit that you may be depressed and need help. Depression should not be viewed as a weakness or character defect. Consult with a professional trained to diagnose and treat depression as depression can be treated very successfully. Remember, the earlier the intervention, the better the prognosis for a speedy recovery.