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Sadness or Depression? DO YOU KNOW THE DIFFERENCE?


We all go through a phase where we are either sad or depressed, but do we know the difference since assuming we are sad when we are depressed can be fatal. Depression is one of the most common mental health illnesses in India today. Feeling sad is an integral part of depression but they aren’t the same. Knowing and understanding the difference can help you seek treatment at the right time.




Sadness


It’s an emotional pain associated with or characterized by feelings of loss, despair, grief, helplessness and or disappointment. The usual symptoms are withdrawal from others, becoming quiet or lethargic. A person going through this emotion usually finds relief by crying, venting, or taking out frustration. Sadness has links to a specific trigger.


Feeling sad is a human emotion that every person feels at certain time during their lives. It’s natural to feel sad and there’s absolutely nothing to worry about. It’s temporary and fades with time.

In case it lasts longer than 2 weeks or gets worse the person should talk to their doctor.


Depression


A mental disorder that has overpowering effect on many parts of a person’s life. It can occur in people of any gender or age and alters behaviors and attitudes. According to the National Mental Health Survey 56 million Indians suffer from depression. That’s 20% of the people suffering globally.


Symptoms Include

  • Feeling of discouragement

  • Sadness

  • Hopelessness

  • Lack of motivation

  • Loss of interest in activities that the individual once enjoyed

  • In severe cases people might think about or attempt suicide. As per a recent survey over 150,000+ Indians take their lives every year.

Some quick tips to help you get out of the same

  • There are millions of others going through the same and you are not alone. Be open, accepting and loving towards yourself.

  • Try doing some exercises, if not anything at least steps out for a walk

  • Try and assess the problem in parts instead of generalizing the whole situation

  • Do the opposite of what the depression voice tells you to do

  • Set attainable goals

  • Incorporate meditation in your daily routine.

  • Spend time with a friend that you trust the most. Open to them and seek help.

Please note if the symptom of depression exists longer that 2 weeks, you need to immediately consult an expert healthcare professional.


Positivminds reinvents mental health and emotional wellbeing care by using data science & Artificial Intelligence in collaboration with clinicians and researchers, designers and writers with the objective to allow for proactive conversations to develop around emotional well-being




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