Grief and depression can look a lot alike.
Someone who is grieving might feel emotionally numb, have difficulty expressing themselves, wonder if life really has any meaning, or isolate themselves from their friends and family. They may also have trouble eating or sleeping and avoid leaving their house.
Conversely, a person suffering from depression often deals with similar struggles.
But, what is the difference between grief and depression? And how do you know if you’re dealing with one or the other?
Contrasting Grief and Depression
Grief is usually connected to a single, traumatic event, like the loss of a loved one. And while it may last a long time for some people, it generally lessens over time.
Clinical depression, on the other hand, can manifest for a variety of reasons and may not be connected to a specific incident or challenging circumstances. It is also more persistent and pervasive, often not lessening but getting worse with time.
But whether you’re grieving or are depressed, the path to healing looks similar. Here’s how to take the first steps on this journey.
Honor Your Emotions
Both minor and major transitions in life can give way to grief or depression—or a combination of both. Even going through with a positive change may mean saying goodbye to old friends, old coworkers, or a familiar way of life. Trying to brush those emotions under the rug might feel better in the short term, but it’s better to process what you’re feeling sooner rather than later.
Reflect on what you’re feeling and honor those emotions. Write it all down in a journal and let yourself cry if you need to. Above all, refrain from judging yourself for your feelings at this time. Your emotions are valid. Criticizing yourself for feeling sad or discouraged will only make it harder to process everything that's going on.
Reach Out and Accept Help
When you’re grieving or depressed (or dealing with both at the same time), reaching out for help can seem daunting. But the truth is that your loved ones probably already know how low you’re feeling, and they want to help you.
Too nervous to sit down with them in person and admit that you’ve been going through a difficult time? Even a simple text to let them know how you’re doing is fine. Connect with them in a way that feels comfortable for you. When you let your guard down and allow yourself to accept help from others, you’ll be amazed at the relief you feel.
Self Care Is Key
At a time like this, it can feel like you have no energy to take care of yourself. But practicing self-care can make a huge difference in your healing journey.
If maintaining your usual healthy routines feels impossibly difficult right now, this is the time to lean on your family and friends. For example, perhaps someone would be happy to take walks around the neighborhood with you or work out together. Maybe one of your friends would love to get together to cook healthy meals.
Healing doesn’t have to be a solo endeavor—it can be a group effort.
Seek Therapy
Sometimes, you need more help than your family and friends can give. If you already have a good support network, you’ve been getting back to healthy habits, and life is slowly returning to normal, but you’re still experiencing "the blues”, it might be time to turn to a professional.
A qualified therapist can help you process your grief or work through your depression. Therapy provides a judgment-free zone where your feelings will be respected. No matter how long you’ve been feeling this way, it’s never too late to ask for professional help.
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Are you wondering whether your current stresses are related to depression or grief? No matter what you’re dealing with, a therapist can help you understand what you're struggling with and work through it. If you’re ready to take that step, contact me today.
Click here for more information on depression therapy.