There is a decisive difference between sadness and depression, but the two are often misconstrued and mixed up. About one in every 15 adults will be adversely affected by depression each year with obstacles such as Covid-19 tipping the scale.
Feelings of sadness occur when we lose something we need and care about such as a job or a partner. It is often associated with the loss of some aspect of one’s identity (e.g., a job, a personal relationship, the end of a life state). Feeling sad is a natural response to unfavorable circumstances and loss. Clinical depression on the other hand negatively affects how you think, feel, and act. Fortunately, feelings of sadness will pass in time, and depression is treatable.
If you are still wondering how to classify the way you are or have been feeling, here are some symptoms of depression to be aware of.
- Feeling down or low for no apparent reason, lasting a week or two or longer.
- Losing interest in the activities you enjoy.
- Experience a change in appetite leading to weight gain or loss.
- Have difficulty sleeping or experience the desire to sleep all day.
- Feeling worn out or fatigued.
- Feelings of guilt or unworthiness.
- Having difficulty thinking, keeping focused, or making decisions.
- Thinking about death or contemplating suicide.
It’s important to remember that life ebbs and flows, and that whether you are sad or depressed, there are several ways to overcome these feelings. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy or CBT is an evidence-based psychological treatment for clinical depression. When antidepressant medication is needed, combining medication and CBT can increase the effectiveness of both treatments. CBT teaches coping skills while meds alone do not. Often hypnotherapy can enhance the effectiveness of both of the above treatments.
If you would like to learn more about my practice or would like to schedule a free consultation appointment, visit us online or call our office today at (561) 377-1039.
Dr. Eimer proudly serves patients in West Pam Beach, Wellington, Lake Worth, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and surrounding areas.