When Sadness Sticks: Understanding Depression and What to Do About It

Let’s talk about something that touches more people than we realize—depression. Depression extends beyond mere feelings of sadness, encompassing a profound, weighty sadness that persists long after the storm has subsided.

Everybody gets sad. Life has its losses, setbacks, and disappointments—we feel it, we move through it, we keep going. However, when that sadness persists, infiltrates every aspect of your life, and causes you to lose joy to the point where you no longer recognize yourself, it becomes more than just sadness. That might be clinical depression.

If you're experiencing that, know that you're not broken, weak, or alone.

So, What’s the Difference?

Here’s how to tell if what you’re experiencing might be something more:

Everyday Sadness:

• Usually tied to a life event (like grief or disappointment)

• Comes in waves—you still have moments of joy

• You’re still functioning (even if it’s hard)

• You start to feel better with time or support

Clinical Depression:

• May show up without an apparent trigger

• Lasts 2 weeks or longer, almost every day

• Interferes with your ability to work, love, sleep, or get through the day

• You lose interest in things that used to bring you joy

• You feel worthless, exhausted, hopeless—or all three

The 9 Key Symptoms of Depression

Mental health professionals look for at least five of these symptoms lasting two weeks or more:

1. Feeling persistently sad, empty, or hopeless

2. Loss of interest in things you used to enjoy

3. Big changes in appetite or weight

4. Sleep problems (either too much or not enough)

5. Feeling physically agitated or slowed down

6. Constant fatigue or low energy

7. Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt

8. Trouble thinking clearly or making decisions

9. Thoughts of death or suicide

If you recognize yourself in this list, please take a moment to pause. Breathe. And know that there is help, and there is hope.

Depression Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All

There are different types of depression, and they show up in different ways:

• Major Depressive Disorder—Intense, disruptive symptoms that last at least two weeks

• Persistent Depressive Disorder (Dysthymia)—Long-term, lower-grade depression that can stretch for years

• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)—Symptoms triggered by shorter daylight months

• Postpartum Depression—Deep emotional lows following childbirth

• Bipolar Depression—Part of a mood cycle that includes periods of mania or hypomania

Depression Can Be Physical Too

It’s not all in your head. Depression can also show up in your body:

• Constant fatigue (even after sleeping)

• Muscle aches and headaches

• Digestive issues

• Appetite and weight changes

• Insomnia or oversleeping

Sometimes people spend years treating physical symptoms without ever realizing the root cause is depression.

Common Myths That Keep People Silent

Let’s dispel a few myths that depression often promotes:

"I should be able to snap out of it."No—you wouldn’t say that to someone with diabetes or asthma. Depression is a medical condition, not a weakness.

"If I take medication, I’ll lose myself."Nope. The right meds help you feel like yourself again. Not a zombie—just… clear.

"Therapy is just talking about feelings."Actually, evidence-based therapy gives you tools, strategies, and clarity. You leave with a plan.

"I’m not suicidal, so I must be fine."You don’t have to hit rock bottom to ask for help. Depression exists on a spectrum, and all of it deserves care.

When to Reach Out

It might be time to talk to a professional if:

• You’ve felt off for more than two weeks

• Work, school, or relationships are starting to suffer

• You’re using substances to numb the pain

• Friends or family are concerned

• You’ve lost interest in things that once mattered

• You’re having thoughts of death or suicide

What Does Treatment Look Like?

We believe in a whole-person approach at JMS Behavioral Health. This implies that we don't simply apply a medication to address the issue; instead, we identify its underlying causes and collaborate with you to develop a customized plan.

Medication:

• Antidepressants can rebalance brain chemistry

• Several options available—we find the one that fits you

• Often most effective when paired with therapy

Therapy:

• CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy): helps you shift negative thinking

• Interpersonal Therapy: improves how you connect with others

• Supportive Therapy: offers tools and emotional space to process

Lifestyle Support:

• Regular movement (yup—even walking counts)

• Balanced sleep and nutrition

• Connection with people who care

• Mindfulness, journaling, and stress reduction

The Road to Feeling Better

Recovery takes time, but it’s possible. Most people start to notice changes within 4 to 6 weeks of beginning treatment. The journey may not be linear, but it is worth it.

Here’s what to remember:

• Progress isn’t perfection

• There will be good days and harder days

• Your treatment plan may shift—and that’s okay

• Recovery is a journey, not a destination

How to Support Someone You Love

If someone in your life is struggling:

• Don’t try to “fix” them—listen with love

• Offer specific support: “Can I drive you to your appointment?”

• Gently encourage professional help

• Be patient with the process

• Take care of yourself, too

Let’s Break the Silence

Depression thrives in silence, but healing begins with truth. When we talk about it openly, when we remove the shame, when we say “me too,” we create space for people to ask for help without fear.

If any of this sounds like you—or someone you love—know this: you don’t have to go through it alone.  Help is here. Healing is possible.

At JMS Behavioral Health, we see you, we hear you, and we’re here to walk this road with you.