Over a million Canadian’s have lost their jobs as a result of the coronavirus. We collectively grieve the losses even if we haven’t lost ours. We hurt for one another because we care. Feeling sad is a normal reaction to loss, both big and small. Often support and time is all that’s needed to heal from a loss. Sadness is healthy and expected; depression isn’t.
Unlike sadness, depression isn’t the result of something bad that’s happened. It comes from the inside. Depression is often about feeling worthless and hopeless, and not able to experience any pleasure or find any meaning in life. Sadness is a normal emotional response to a loss. Depression is an illness that can be life threatening if not treated. Sadness can turn into depression if we don’t monitor our thoughts and negative thinking habits. When we know the difference between the two, we are better able to monitor and protect our own mental health.
Jenny DeReis, MC Psych, CCC
Walmsley EFAP