Sadness vs. Depression

[Guest guest]

(Submitted by CFA Member, P.J. Doesn't the depression rate for

people with Fibromyalgia seem a little too high? Let me know what

you think.)

Q. When Does Sadness And Frustration Cross Over Into Depression?

by Carol & Eustice,www.about.com, Your Guide to Arthritis.

Sadness is a normal emotion that we all feel at times. It's not the

same as depression. When does sadness and frustration which may be

expected to be associated with chronic arthritis cross over into

clinical depression? When are anti-depressant medications indicated?

When do you recommend professional counseling? What can an arthritis

patient do to help themselves or recognize they need help for

depression?

A.

Depression: A Common Problem

Depression is common problem for people with arthritis and related

conditions. The United States National Health and Nutrition study

showed that 16% of people with chronic musculoskeletal pain had

depression and other studies have shown an incidence of depression

as high as:

49% in people with fibromyalgia

37% in people with rheumatoid arthritis

33% in those afflicted with osteoarthritis

Young patients with rheumatoid arthritis may be at an increased risk

of depression due to an increase in pain and stress.

Is It Sadness Or Depression?

Two questions that may help determine whether the sadness and

frustration many experience with chronic illness crosses over to

depression are:

(1) During the past month, have you often been bothered by feeling

down, depressed or hopeless?

(2) During the past month, have you often been bothered by having

little interest or pleasure in doing things?

If the answer is no to both, you are unlikely to have major

depression.

Warning Signs And Symptoms

Even if a patient does not have major depression, it is important to

notify your doctor if you have any of the following signs and

symptoms including:

depressed mood

lack of interest or pleasure in your usual activities

weight changes

sleep disturbances

lack of energy

excessive guilt

poor concentration

thoughts of death or suicide

Remember, if you experience any of these signs and symptoms,

counseling (social worker, psychologist or psychiatrist) and

medication are key to feeling better.

More Information

See Our Section: Depression & Arthritis

See Our Article: Treating Depression Relieves Arthritis Too

Please See: Conquering Depression

Also See: Beyond Sadness: Is It Clinical Depression Or Sadness?

Although depression is often thought of being in an extreme state of

sadness, there is a vast difference between clinical depression and

sadness. Sadness is a normal part of being human, a natural reaction

to painful circumstances. All of us will experience sadness at some

point in our lives. Depression, however, is a physical illness with

many more signs and symptoms than an unhappy mood.

Also See: Sadness Is Not The Same As Depression

We all feel sad sometimes. Sadness is a normal emotion that can make

life more interesting. Sadness almost always accompanies loss. Learn

ways to experience normal sadness in a healthy way and to allow this

emotion to enrich your life.

Answer provided by J. Zashin, M.D., clinical assistant

professor at University of Texas Southwestern Medical School,

Division of Rheumatology, in Dallas, Texas. Dr. Zashin is also an

attending physician at Presbyterian Hospitals of Dallas and Plano.

He is a fellow of the American College of Physicians and the

American College of Rheumatology and a member of the American

Medical Association.