The Difference Between Grief and Depression

If you have suffered a loss, you will know how overwhelming this period is to the point where it’s difficult to navigate the barrage of feelings that you’re experiencing.

You may even start to wonder if you have developed depression because of what happened.

I know of this experience myself as a therapist in Texas at True Narra Counseling. In my practice, I make sure to acknowledge that depression and grief do have similarities. Grief can develop into complicated grief, a type of grief that does not dissipate over time and can very much look like depression.

This way, patients can start to work on separating and, thus, understanding their emotions.

At the same time, it is important to differentiate the two because each requires a different intervention.

In line with this, here are the ways that grief can differ from depression and vice versa.

• The intensity of difficult emotionsIn grief, feelings come in waves. Pain and positive recollection of the deceased can coexist. In depression, this very rarely happens. In fact, low moods and loss of interest are decreased for at least 2 weeks and are sustained.
• How self-esteem is affectedIn grief, one’s self-esteem is not harmed. In depression, on the other hand, feelings of worthlessness and self-loathing come hand-in-hand.
• Focus of thoughts of deathIn grief, thoughts of death and suicide ideation usually come with wanting to ‘join’ the deceased. In depression, these thoughts are rooted in feelings of worthlessness.

Whichever your case, it is crucial to seek counseling services to address your situation.

I offer psychotherapy in Frisco, Texas for your mental health needs. Do not hesitate to reach out to me.