"I feel depressed". The ease with which this term is used, which has become synonymous with being sad, is impressive. But no, being depressed is not being sad. Depression is a disease that prevents the person who is suffering from it from being functional.

Sadness is a normal human emotion. It is usually triggered by some event, experience or situation that hurts the subject, who feels "sad about something", while depression is an abnormal and dangerous state.

Depression affects the patient in their thoughts, emotions, attitudes and perceptions. The one who is depressed feels sad about everything and does not necessarily require an event that causes it.

Why are they confused?

Yes, there is a relationship between sadness and depression and it is that the first is one of the symptoms of the second, although not the only one.

A depressed person shows symptoms such as an exacerbated discomfort throughout and all the time, decreased interest in certain activities (including those he previously enjoyed), changes in weight and appetite, problems sleeping and excessive sleep.

Those who suffer from depression feel with low energy. They also think that they are worth little and are guilty of everything that happens. They have problems concentrating, being creative and making decisions. This could result in suicidal thoughts.

These symptoms are prolonged for at least two weeks and can be arranged with specialized medical treatment. It does not matter how many times you tell that person to "think of something else," or that he "does his part to not be like that." The patient needs professional help.

Am I depressed or sad?

Do you think you are depressed? Ask yourself the following questions:

• Do you still enjoy those little things that used to make you happy?
• Do you sleep and eat normally?
• Are there times of the day when you forget your sadness and you can smile?
• Do you have constant self-critical thinking and feel guilty about everything that happens?
• Does it cause you to hurt yourself to correct what you fail?

If your answer to most of these questions is yes and you feel that the sadness has gone on longer than usual, it is time for you to seek help.

Remember that mental health is important and you should not stigmatize it. It's okay to ask for help. You are not weak for doing it, but very sensible. Ahead!