The words “depressed” and “sad” are often used interchangeably in society. But while pervasive sadness may be one of the defining symptoms of depression, it’s crucial to distinguish between the two common psychological states. While sadness is a normal, healthy human emotion, depression is an all-consuming, debilitating mental illness.
“Depression is not sadness. It’s not having a bad day and needing a hug. It gave me a complete and utter sense of isolation and loneliness,” Bell wrote.
She added that after seeking help, she was able to see that her feelings of worthlessness, of feeling like a failure, couldn’t have been more wrong.