What is the difference between depression and feeling sad?

Depression involves more than just sadness. Some situations are bound to make you feel sad. If sadness lasts for several months and is accompanied by other problems, you may be suffering from depression. Besides sadness, other problems to look for include hopelessness, low energy, trouble sleeping or sleeping too much, poor appetite or overeating, feeling bad about yourself, or trouble concentrating. These are the kinds of symptoms that a therapist or psychiatrist can help with. If you find yourself thinking about suicide, this indicates a more serious depression. Get treatment right away.

I have a healthy baby and a life partner I love, but I’m sad and I see only the dark side of life. What’s wrong with me?

About 13 per cent of new moms suffer from postpartum depression in the first month following delivery. Possible symptoms include great sadness, irritability, a loss of interest or enjoyment in usual activities, trouble sleeping, fatigue, a feeling of emptiness, suicidal thoughts, etc. Postpartum depression requires immediate medical attention. A new mother doesn’t always dare ask for help because she’s ashamed of feeling unhappy. If a partner or other loved ones see that mom isn’t doing well, it’s important that they get her to seek help. There is also a rare and extremely serious illness called postpartum psychosis. It manifests itself in the days following the birth, and symptoms include confusion, hallucinations, delirium and aggressiveness.

I worry constantly about my child. Am I suffering from anxiety?

It’s normal to be worried from time to time about your child. However, anxiety becomes a problem when you’re unable to control it, when it takes up too much space, and when it stops you from functioning in your daily life. Generalised anxiety often comes with other symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, trouble sleeping or concentrating, restlessness, heart palpitations, trembling and nausea. If you think you’re suffering from anxiety, don’t hesitate to seek help.