Normal life has its ups and downs, and sadness is a part of life for all of us. Perhaps you are sad because you have a romantic or family relationship that is not working out, you have not gotten the job or promotion you desire, you are lonely or isolated. If you have recently lost a family member or someone you care for deeply, you may feel profound sadness. There are countless reasons to experience sadness and you may ask, am I depressed?
Sadness is a normal response to a difficult time, it is normal to be sad, and sadness is not a disease state. Sometimes the terms sadness and depression are used interchangeably. You might feel sad or “depressed”, but if this is due to a tough incident or event, it is not the same as the clinical disease called Depression.
Depression on the other hand is an overwhelming sadness about everything. It is a medical condition that goes beyond life’s ordinary ups and downs. People with severe depression do not just pull themselves together after an episode of sadness. In fact, when experiencing clinical depression, you may feel sad for no identifiable reason.
So, if you are feeling sad, we will make several recommendations. Get outside, spend time in nature, exercise, spend time in quality social interaction, volunteer, eat foods that are nourishing, take care of yourself, however that is meaningful for you. Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal medicine will also help you process sadness so that you can move on with your life.
Treating depression takes a more multifaceted approach. Treatment may include therapy, medications, lifestyle modifications. Acupuncture and Chinese Herbal Medicine are helpful in this multifaceted treatment plan.
Please let us know if we can be of help
Ann & Emily
