65% of Dallas County residents cite “stigma” or “embarrassment” as the primary barrier to getting help for mental health challenges. Learn about Stigma.
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Sadness or Depression

DO YOU FEEL EMPTY, ALONE, ADRIFT, OR JUST SAD?

Feeling sadness is a very real part of being human, and it happens in response to situations that hurt us emotionally. Even when sad though, many people still find enjoyment in people and activities they’ve always enjoyed.

Sadness differs from depression which is a long-term mental illness that can affect your quality of life.

To be diagnosed with depression, an individual must have experienced the symptoms (see Warning Signs below) of major depressive disorder that lasts for more than two weeks or what doctors refer to as a “depressive episode.”

Examples of Sadness and Depression

Sadness is emotional pain that can be related to feelings of loss, despair, grief, helplessness, or disappointment. Depression is a deeper, longer-lasting experience of sadness, which may lead to feelings of being empty, lost, not connected to others, and not being able to cope. It’s hard to do routine tasks. COVID-19 was hard on people. Life can be hard and exhausting. Working and keeping up with your bills and trying to stay ahead can feel honestly defeating. People get depressed. People get sad. Even the toughest, strongest people just feel like nothing sometimes.

Warning Signs

A depressed, sad mood that lasts nearly all day on most days
A loss of interest or pleasure in normal or previously enjoyed activities
Significant weight loss or gain
Inability to sleep or oversleeping most days
Feeling agitated or slowed down
Daily fatigue
Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
Inability or difficulty with thinking, concentrating, and decision-making
Thoughts of death or suicide, potentially with attempted suicide

What To Do Now

Realize depression and sadness are more common than you realize. We’re here for you. Go to FindHelp.org now, or call 988.

13% of teens in North Texas suffer from depression. An additional 9% suffer from severe depression.

Your mental health matters.

You’re here. And that’s a great first step on the way to finding better ways to manage your mental health. Because here’s the thing, mental health affects everyone and it changes throughout your life as you experience new challenges and go through trauma, stress, change and everything else this world can throw at you. And it takes a lot of practice, care and help to manage your mental health through it all. That’s why we’re here with the information, resources, tips and people you need — so you don’t have to do it alone. So, let’s keep it going and take the next steps toward better mental health together. What are you dealing with?
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