Sadness and depression can feel similar. Both make you feel low. But they are not the same. Here, we will help you see the difference. We will use simple examples and kind advice. We are Ruby Reflections Mental Health, and we care about you.
What Is Sadness?
Sadness is a normal feeling. It happens to everyone. You might feel sad when you lose a pet, move homes, or have a bad day. Sadness lasts a short time. You can still do many things when you are sad. You might cry, feel quiet, or want to be alone. After a while, the sad feeling usually gets smaller.
What Is Depression?
Depression is more than feeling sad. It is a health problem. It can last for weeks or months. Depression can make it hard to eat, sleep, or finish school or work. People with depression may feel tired all the time. They may lose interest in things they used to like. Depression can hinder clear thinking. It can make a person feel hopeless.
How Are They Different?
Sadness:
- Comes after a hard event.
- Feels strong but changes with time.
- You can still do most things.
Depression:
- Lasts a long time.
- Affects many parts of life.
- Makes it hard to do normal things.
A simple test: If the feelings last most of the day for two weeks or more, and make life harder, it might be depression. If the feelings come and go, and you can still do many things, it might be sadness.
How Might Sadness Feel?
Sadness can feel heavy for a short time. You might cry a lot. You may want comfort. Talking with a friend or family member can help. Fun things, rest, or time can help sadness shrink.
How Might Depression Feel?
Depression can make the world look gray. You may not enjoy games, food, or friends. You may feel guilty or very tired. You might not sleep well or might sleep too much. Sometimes people with depression think about hurting themselves. This is very serious. If someone says they want to hurt themselves, get help right away.
When to Ask For Help
Ask for help if:
- Sadness or worry lasts more than two weeks.
- You stop doing things you used to enjoy.
- You have big trouble sleeping or eating.
- You think about hurting yourself.
It is okay to ask for help. You are not weak. You are brave.
How We Can Help at Ruby Reflections Mental Health
We are here for you. We use kind care and real help. You can talk to us from home. Here are the things we do to help:
Telehealth
- We meet with you online. You can join from home. We listen and make a plan with you. This is private and easy.
Medication Management
- If medicine can help, we will guide you. We check how the medicine works. We keep you safe and comfortable.
Supportive Psychotherapy
- Talking with a caring person can help. Our therapists listen. We teach ways to feel better. We help you find small steps to heal.
Addiction and Substance Use Treatment
- If someone uses alcohol or drugs to cope, we can help. We give support and tools to stay safe and recover.
Comprehensive Psychiatric Evaluation
- We look closely at your needs. We ask simple questions and listen. This helps us make the right plan just for you.
Meet Our Nurse Practitioner
Our psychiatric nurse practitioner is Kemisola “Kemi” Ebietomiye. She has experience working with individuals of all ages. Kemi previously served in the United States Army. She has worked in clinics and hospitals. Kemi is an expert in mood problems, anxiety, sleep issues, and more. She aims to have everyone leave appointments feeling respected and hopeful.
Things That Help at Home
- Get fresh air and light.
- Aim to go to bed at the same hour every night.
- Eat simple, healthy foods.
- Move your body a little each day.
- Talk to a friend or family member.
These things can lift mood for sadness and help, along with other care, if it is depression.
What If You Need Urgent Help
In case you are not safe or you want to cause harm to yourself, seek assistance. Call local emergency services or a crisis helpline. Ask any adult you trust if you are a child. You don’t have to tackle it by yourself.
Conclusion
Sadness is part of life. It can teach us and pass. Depression is a health issue that needs care. You are not alone. We at Ruby Reflections Mental Health want to help. We listen, we care, and we walk with you. If you think you might have depression, reach out. You deserve help and hope.
FAQs
Q. Can medicine help with depression?
Sometimes medicine helps. A doctor or nurse can decide what is best.
Q. Will I be judged if I ask for help?
No. We listen with care. You will be treated with kindness and respect.
