Is it sadness or depression?

                   

Photo credit:Gollop-Brown 

Everyone feels sad once in awhile. It’s normal to feel sad when we run into disappointments or experience a loss. We may get sad for days at a time depending upon the occasion. But not everyone gets depressed.

Those who are sad typically expect that they will be happy again, and can at least locate positive emotions when they need them. Whereas those who are depressed feel as if they cannot access a better emotion, regardless of how hard they try.

If you or a loved one find yourself falling deeper into sadness in a way that provokes concern, you may actually be experiencing depression.

Signs  that you may have become depressed rather than simply feeling sad;you have lost interest in activities that you used to absolutely love, you find that even if you take part in these activities, you are still not enjoying them.

You find that either you have trouble sleeping or you are sleeping more than usual.

An individual find that they have a difficult time concentrating on the things that matter, find that your energy is zapped and you move around slower than you want to, eating too much or too little. Feeling guilty without good reason which can make ones life feel worthless or make it hopeless, this certain thoughts actually cause physical pain and feeling suicidal regularly comes to an individuals mind.

One of the challenges of suffering with depression is that often you don’t look sick. On the outside, it can appear that everything is absolutely fine, while on the inside, you’re struggling to get through the day. Too often, the shame and stigma associated with depression prevents the ones who need help the most from getting the help they need.

Psychologists and psychiatrists are available on in local health facilities, in the comfort of your home, or wherever is quiet and private. You don’t have to leave your house—or even your bed—to connect with someone who cares.

Story by: Precious Manyelenyele