Therapy For Depression

The Difference Between Feeling Sad And Being Depressed (And How Therapy For Depression Can Help)

If you're searching for a therapist near me for depression, it's likely that you've come to terms with the fact that you're dealing with something more than a sad mood. Unfortunately, many people struggle to differentiate between being sad and dealing with clinical depression. When you're going through therapy for depression, it can be helpful to understand how to differentiate between the two in order to explain how you're feeling to loved ones. Let's take a look at some of the main differences between feeling sad and having depression.

Feeling sad is typically related to a specific event, while depression is not necessarily related to an event. Depression can come and go for seemingly no reason, as it's caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain.
Antidepressant medications can be helpful for people who are dealing with depression, but they are not helpful for feeling sad or down for a period of time.
Depression lasts at least six weeks, while feeling sad typically passes in a couple of days.
People who are dealing with depression often struggle to keep up with everyday activities, such as maintaining their responsibilities with family, friendships, and work or school. A sad mood typically does not interfere with daily activities.
Depression often carries physical symptoms, such as headaches, insomnia, stomach pain, and more. A sad mood does not typically carry these issues.

If you're searching for a therapist near me for depression, know that you're doing the right thing by reaching out for help. It's not easy to admit when it's time to seek therapy for depression. If you're ready to take the next step toward getting your life back, we're here for you. Reach out to us at Alinea Psychologies today to learn more.