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Sometimes we have a tough day. But if you've been feeling down for a long time, it could be a sign that it's time to seek help.

What is sadness?

Sadness is an emotion that can be a result of many different things. It is a normal reaction to different life situations, losses or difficulties.

It can be a short-term, transient feeling, often linked to specific events such as a crisis, failure or personal loss, but it can also be part of depression, a more severe condition. Depression often requires longer-term treatment.

At Lavendla, you can get help for both sadness and depression. Read more in the article below.

What set our therapist apart was her genuine empathy and personal insight. Not only did she possess a deep understanding of neurodiversity, but she also shared personal experiences that resonated with us, creating an instant connection and fostering a sense of trust!

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Why do we develop depression?

Sadness is a normal part of the human emotional experience and can be a way of reacting to difficult events or situations. Traumatic and unexpected events may cause us to experience stress with feelings of unreality, sleep problems and anxiety. This can lead to depression after some time.

Lifestyle factors, such as being too sedentary, loneliness or financial worries, can also cause sadness. It is important to distinguish between sadness and clinical depression, where low mood is often more long-lasting, deep and affects a person’s ability to function in everyday life. If you feel less joy in life and more low mood, it may be wise to seek professional help for support and advice.

Symptoms of depression

  • Sense of sadness or grief: A general feeling of sadness or loss.
  • Reduced energy: Feeling tired and lacking motivation.
  • Decreased interest: Loss of interest in usual activities or reduced ability to experience pleasure.
  • Difficulty focusing: Decreased ability to concentrate or difficulty keeping thoughts clear.
  • Sleep problems: Changes in sleep patterns, such as lack of sleep or increased sleepiness.
  • Increased irritability: Reduced resilience and increased sensitivity to stress.

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Fatigue and depression

Do you often feel tired and have difficulty feeling happy? Has your workload become too much? Maybe you are withdrawing socially? If so, it is important not to ignore these signs, as they can be indications of low mood or an underlying depressive disorder. Fatigue can also be a sign of stress issues and exhaustion. At Lavendla, we can do an initial assessment to see how we can best help you based on your situation. We make the difficult easier.

Depression and sadness

Sadness is a symptom of depression. Therefore, it is important to seek help if you feel persistent sadness so that you can get the right help. Depression is a common illness, with around 8% of the Canadian population having a diagnosis of major depressive disorder. It is important to understand that depression is an illness and not a sign of weakness or lack of willpower. Effective treatments, including therapy, medication and lifestyle changes, are available to help people suffering from depression.


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Effective therapies

There are various treatment options for dealing with depression. Psychotherapy and medications are common treatments. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) has proven to be an effective treatment method, especially when combined with medication such as antidepressants. By talking to a professional therapist or psychologist, you can identify the underlying causes of your depression and work on concrete strategies to improve your well-being.

We make the difficult easier

We all experience losses, crises or other difficulties in our lives. Talking about mental health can be difficult, but seeking help is an important step in improving your quality of life. The benefits include improved health, better work ability and improved relationships. It takes strength to seek help and therapy is a proven method for dealing with various concerns. By seeking professional help, you can make the difficult a little easier. At Lavendla, we have therapists and psychologists who can help you.

If you have thoughts of self-harm or suicidal thoughts, call 911, call or text the national suicide hotline at 988 or go to the nearest emergency room.


12 frequently asked questions about sadness

What is sadness?

Sadness can be a normal reaction to different life situations, such as stress, loss, relationship difficulties or change. Most people experience periods of sadness at some stage in their lives.

What are the most common symptoms of depression?

The most common symptoms include persistent sadness, lack of energy, sleep problems, fatigue and irritability.

How is depression diagnosed?

Diagnosis of depression is usually done through interviews and assessment forms by a health professional such as a psychologist or doctor. Blood tests are also often taken to rule out other medical causes.

What causes sadness?

Sadness can be caused by a variety of things such as crises, losses or lifestyle factors. It can vary from person to person.

How is depression treated?

Treatment options vary but often include therapy and lifestyle changes. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a common form of psychological treatment.

How long is the treatment for depression?

The length of treatment can vary depending on the severity and individual needs. Some people can experience relief within a few weeks, while others need longer treatment.

Is depression hereditary?

Genetics can play a role in depression, but it is usually a combination of several factors such as life events and personal circumstances that contribute to depression.

Can exercise help with depression?

Yes, regular physical activity has been shown to improve mood and mental health. However, it should not replace professional care when needed.

What are the risk factors for depression?

The way you relate to and deal with both crises and life contributes to the development of depression. This can include whether you talk about your problems, what social support you have and how you live your daily life.

Is depression more common in men or women?

Depression is diagnosed in women twice as much as it is in men. Symptoms may differ between the sexes.

How does depression affect relationships?

Depression can make it difficult to maintain healthy relationships and can lead to social withdrawal.

Can Lavendla help me?

Yes, if you are experiencing symptoms of depression, it is important to seek professional help. Our psychologists and therapists are available for online consultations and can help you make the difficult easier.

Tips for dealing with depression

Seeking help for depression is a big step towards better health. It is a positive thing to decide to take control of how you feel. Here is an overview of the steps usually involved in therapy.

Step 1: An initial assessment session

The first meeting with your psychologist or therapist is usually an assessment to review your mental and physical health. Prepare for questions about your life situation, feelings, thoughts and behaviours. You may also complete assessment forms.

Step 2: Goal setting

This is where you and your therapist set concrete goals for the therapy, both short and long term.
It can define which areas of your life are most affected by your depression and how you would like to change them.

Step 4: Treatment for depression

This is the actual treatment phase, which may include treatment such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). Talk therapy, exercises, and homework assignments aim to give you tools to overcome your depression.

Step 5: Monitoring and evaluation

Your therapist will regularly monitor treatment to see how well the therapy is working. If necessary, the treatment plan can be adjusted or renewed.

Step 6: Ending and looking ahead

As the therapy comes to an end, it is time to reflect on the progress made. You will also receive a plan on how to use the tools and strategies you have learned in the future.

If you or someone close to you is seeking professional help for depression, don’t hesitate to book a session with one of our qualified psychologists or therapists.


Written by Sophia Coulter

Sophia is a registered nurse with experience in inpatient, emergency and community mental health care. She has a passion for providing emergency support for those experiencing mental health crises.