Symptoms of depression might include:
• Persistent sadness or emptiness
• Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed
• Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
• Fatigue or low energy
• Changes in sleep or appetite
• Difficulty concentrating
• Thoughts of death or suicide
While grief can share some of these symptoms, the underlying causes and emotional patterns are different.

Key Differences Between Grief and Depression
Understanding the distinction between grief and depression can help provide clarity:

1.  Root Cause:
• Grief: Triggered by a specific loss.
• Depression: May not have an identifiable cause and can stem from biological, psychological, or environmental factors.

2.  Emotional Variation:
• Grief: Emotions often come in waves and are tied to memories or reminders of the loss.
• Depression: Emotions tend to feel persistent and unchanging, with little connection to specific triggers.

3.  Sense of Self:
• Grief: While painful, grief often doesn’t diminish your self-worth.
• Depression: Can lead to pervasive feelings of worthlessness and self-loathing.

4.  Capacity for Joy:
• Grief: Moments of joy and connection are still possible, even amid sorrow.
• Depression: Joy often feels inaccessible, no matter the circumstances. 

When Grief and Depression Overlap

Sometimes, grief and depression can coexist. For example, if grief becomes prolonged and starts to feel unmanageable, it may evolve into what’s known as complicated grief or even trigger a depressive episode. This is why it’s so important to pay attention to how you’re feeling over time and seek support when needed.

When to Seek Help
Whether you’re experiencing grief, depression, or a mix of both, reaching out for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Consider seeking support if:

• You feel stuck in your pain and unable to move forward
• Your emotions are interfering with your daily life and relationships
• You’re struggling with thoughts of hopelessness or self-harm
• You’re unsure whether what you’re feeling is grief, depression, or both

Therapists, support groups, and even trusted friends and family members can provide the understanding and compassion you need to start healing.

Final Thoughts
Grief and depression are both deeply human experiences that deserve acknowledgment and care. While they may share similarities, understanding their differences can help you navigate your emotions and seek the right kind of support.
Remember, it’s okay to not be okay—and it’s more than okay to ask for help. Whether you’re grieving, struggling with depression, or both, you don’t have to face it alone. There’s light ahead, even if it’s hard to see right now. You’re not broken; you’re just human and healing is always possible.
  
Karen Hurley Psychotherapy and Associates has been providing grief depression therapy services in the Mississauga area for 30 years and we invite you to contact us to learn more about how we can help.