Have you got the summertime sadness, or something else?

This is a photo of a woman sat in bed, looking unhappy

Here at happiful we talk a lot about happiness and try to inject a little colour and light into the world. However, it’s important to recognise the darker moments too. Feeling sad is an emotion we all feel, and it’s healthy to acknowledge and respect our lower moods when they strike. Understanding when we need support is the important bit. If sadness becomes your baseline emotion and you’re struggling to enjoy daily activities, you may be suffering from depression.

Knowing the difference

Depression is a relatively common mental health condition (anxiety and depression affect an estimated 615 million people worldwide). Unlike sadness, it isn’t a fleeting emotion. It may ease or worsen at times, but often you’ll need support from a professional. While all circumstances and experiences are unique, we’ve put together a brief guide to knowing the difference:

Sadness

You feel low for a few days, but are quickly lifted by friends, family, or an activity you enjoy.

Depression

You feel low for longer, (typically more than two weeks) and cannot be lifted by friends or family, and the activities you used to enjoy no longer make you happy.

Sadness

You may be a little off your food or struggling to sleep, but overall your eating and sleeping habits remain the same.

Depression

Your eating habits change (loss of appetite or comfort eating) and/or your sleeping habits alter so that you’re unable to sleep or sleeping more than usual.

Sadness

You feel down, but within yourself you know you’ll be OK after some time.

Depression

You feel a sense of hopelessness and are struggling to see a time when you won’t feel otherwise.

What to do next?

If you recognise the signs of depression in yourself or someone you know, reaching out to a professional is recommended. Make an appointment with your GP or counsellor for a diagnosis and guidance on treatment options. There are lots of ways to help with depression, from mindfulness meditation and lifestyle changes to prescribed medication and talking therapies. Finding the right combination for you, and having a support network around you, is key. Remember, the human experience is a complicated one. We all need support sometimes.

Summer is a time for joy and fun in the sun. But with depression, a sunny day isn’t enough to change one’s mood. Here’s how to cope:

  • Keep taking any prescribed medication.
  • Keep attending counselling sessions.
  • If your counsellor is going on holiday, make plans or strategies to help while they’re away.
  • Be honest with friends and family. Tell them how your condition makes you feel and that some activities can be a struggle for you.
  • If you have the energy, go for a walk and really notice the nature around you with all your senses.
  • Prioritise self-care. Be kind and listen to yourself and to what you need.