How do I know if I have clinical depression versus just feeling sad?

The difference between clinical Major depressive disorder and normal sadness lies in the intensity, duration, and impact on your daily functioning. While sadness is a natural emotional response to life's challenges, clinical Major depressive disorder is a persistent mental health condition that significantly interferes with your ability to live your life. Normal sadness typically has an identifiable cause—like losing a job, ending a relationship, or experiencing disappointment. It tends to come in waves, allowing for moments of other emotions, and generally improves over time or when circumstances life changes. You can usually still function in your daily activities, maintain Interpersonal relationship, and find some enjoyment in things you normally like. Clinical Major depressive disorder, also called major depressive disorder, involves persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness that last for at least two weeks and occur most of the day, nearly every day. It's often accompanied by a loss of interest or pleasure in activities you once enjoyed, significant changes in appetite or sleep patterns, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt management, and sometimes thoughts of death or suicide. Major depressive disorder can occur without an obvious trigger or may persist long after a triggering event has passed. It affects your ability to work, study, maintain Interpersonal relationship, and take care of yourself. Simple tasks like getting out of bed, showering, or preparing meals can feel overwhelming. Physical symptoms are also common with Major depressive disorder, including headaches, digestive issues, chronic pain, or feeling like you're moving through molasses. These aren't "just in your head"—Major depressive disorder affects your entire body. If you're experiencing several of these symptoms for more than two weeks, or if your feelings are interfering with your daily life, it's important to speak with a healthcare provider or mental health professional. Major depressive disorder is highly treatable with Psychotherapy, Psychiatric medication, or a combination of both. Remember that seeking help for Major depressive disorder isn't a sign of weakness—it's a sign of strength and self-awareness. You deserve support and don't have to struggle alone.