“I've been depressed since the breakup last week.”
Usage Entry 1482 / 1605 60-second read
Depression vs. Sadness
A persistent mood disorder versus a normal emotional response.
The comparisoni
“I've been SAD since the breakup last week — that's a normal response. DEPRESSION is a clinical condition (typically symptoms for 2+ weeks, with specific criteria).”
The ruleii
¶
SADNESS = normal. DEPRESSION = condition.
SADNESS is a normal emotional response to loss or disappointment — passes with time. DEPRESSION (major depressive disorder) is a clinical condition with specific criteria: persistent low mood, loss of interest, sleep changes, etc., for 2+ weeks. Casual "depressed" muddies the distinction.
Memory aidiii
Remember it like this
Sadness fades. Depression lingers.