Sadness is a human feeling that everyone experiences in their lives due to various events happening in their lives. Sadness is a normal reaction to conditions that bring emotional distress or discomfort. There are several levels of sadness. Sadness, similar to other emotions disappears with time and so it varies from depression.
Depression is a chronic mental condition. It has a negative impact on social, occupational, and other vital areas of functioning. Depression symptoms can continue for a long time if left untreated.
Continue reading to find out more about the distinctions between depression and sadness.
Symptoms of Depression
When you’re depressed, it can feel all-consuming. But there should also be times when you can laugh or be consoled. Depression is distinct from sadness. Your emotions will have an impact on every element of your life. It may be difficult, if not impossible, to find happiness in anything, including activities and people you formerly enjoyed. Depression is a mental health illness and not an emotion.
- Constantly sad feelings
- Irritability
- Shifts in sleeping or eating habits
- Difficulties concentrating lack of interest and passion for previously pleasurable activities
- Sentiments of intense, unjustified guilt
- Physical symptoms that do not have a clear origin, such as headaches or body aches
- Sentiments of inadequacy
- Recurring thoughts of death
- Suicidal ideas or acts
If you are sad, you may experience some of these symptoms, but they should not persist for more than two weeks. Suicidal ideation is a symptom of depression, not melancholy.
Causes of Depression
There are various underlying factors that cause depression. They might be biological or situational.
The common causes of depression are:
The chemistry of the brain: In persons who suffer from depression, there may be a chemical imbalance in areas of the brain that control mood, thinking, sleep, food, and behavior.
Hormone balance: Changes in female hormones estrogen and progesterone during various stages of life, such as the monthly cycle, postpartum period, perimenopause, or menopause, can all increase a person’s risk of depression.
Trauma in childhood: Some events have an impact on how your body reacts to fear and stressful situations.
The structure of the brain: If the frontal lobe of your brain is less active, you are more likely to suffer from depression. Medical problems. Certain conditions, such as chronic illness, insomnia, chronic pain, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, heart attack, and cancer, may increase your risk.
Use of drugs: A history of drug or alcohol abuse can increase the risk of getting into depression.
When should you seek assistance?
Consult the certified psychiatrists if your sadness lasts longer than two weeks.
Take note if your emotions interfere with your capacity to perform, participate in life, or enjoy yourself. Speaking with our professional experts can be an effective first step toward healing. We, at Psych MD, one of the best mental health clinics in Arizona, USA help people of all age groups to claim their mental wellness with great ease. Our team of professionals will help you to access a stress-free life with our proven and tested medication & therapies. Schedule your visit today with us!