“I don’t feel good, but I don’t feel bad either—I just feel empty.”
This was the comment of one of my first patients. Feeling lost, unable to find joy in things that once brought happiness, and feeling misunderstood in a world that seems dark and suffocating—this is how depression can feel.
Many people who seek therapy do so due to difficulty managing sadness. Society often fails to teach us how to handle sadness properly. However, like any other emotion, sadness is a natural part of being human and should not be seen as something inherently negative.
Sadness vs. Depression: Understanding the Difference
🔹 Sadness is a normal emotion, just like joy, fear, or shame.
🔹 It is a temporary reaction to a specific event, such as failing an exam, losing a job, or facing criticism.
🔹 Grief and sadness are necessary for personal growth—they allow us to process painful experiences and adapt.
However, when sadness becomes overwhelming, persistent, and affects daily functioning, it may indicate something deeper—depression.
What is Depression?
Depression is not just sadness. According to the DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders), depressive disorders are characterized by:
🔸 A persistent low mood, sadness, or hopelessness for at least two weeks
🔸 Loss of interest or pleasure in previously enjoyable activities (Anhedonia)
🔸 Low energy or fatigue
🔸 Changes in appetite (significant weight loss or gain)
🔸 Insomnia or excessive sleeping (Hypersomnia)
🔸 Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
🔸 Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
🔸 Physical restlessness or slowed movement
🔸 Suicidal thoughts or self-harm
Depression can last for weeks, months, or even years if left untreated. Early recognition and intervention are crucial.
The Key Differences Between Sadness and Depression
💔 Sadness is a temporary emotion in response to a situation.
💔 Depression is persistent and affects daily life for weeks or months.
💡 Example: Losing a loved one causes grief, which is normal and necessary. But if the sadness deepens, becomes overwhelming, and prevents you from functioning, it may indicate depression.
How Depression Affects Behavior
People with depression may unconsciously develop coping mechanisms to avoid pain, such as:
⚠ Overloading themselves with activities to stay distracted
⚠ Engaging in compulsive shopping or emotional eating
⚠ Denying their problems and suppressing emotions
Unfortunately, avoiding emotions does not solve the problem—instead, it accumulates distress until it becomes unbearable.
❗ If depression is left untreated, it can lead to severe consequences, including suicidal thoughts.
Facing and Overcoming Depression
While accepting depression is difficult, the most effective way to heal is to confront it.
✔ Therapy has been proven to be highly effective in treating depression.
✔ Seeking help is not a sign of weakness—it’s an act of courage and self-care.
Just as we see a doctor when we have physical pain, we should seek psychological support when we experience emotional pain.
The Power of Therapy
🔹 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) helps change negative thoughts and behaviors.
🔹 Humanistic Therapy focuses on self-awareness and emotional healing.
🔹 Medication (if necessary) can help stabilize chemical imbalances under medical supervision.
Your Mental Health Matters
Your mental well-being is just as important as your physical health. Depression is not a choice, but seeking help is.
💙 If you or someone you love is struggling with depression, reach out for support today.
📩 Need Help? Contact Us:
🔗 WhatsApp: Click Here to Chat
📧 Email: info@adefagua.org
💙 You are not alone. Healing starts with a single step. 💙