Depression

It is important to distinguish between feeling sad, grieving and suffering from a depressive disorder. Everyone feels sad at some point. Sometimes your problems seem insurmountable and the future looks hopeless. It's also natural to feel sad and pessimistic when you experience adversity and loss, for instance in the case of an unhappy relationship, unemployment or bereavement.

But when you are sad, your life doesn’t change significantly. You are able to take part in activities, able to continue working and still able to experience a range of emotions and respond positively to happy events.

To be sad or 'down' at times is normal. Periods of sadness will pass. Even if you are experiencing grief, usually in time you learn to cope with your loss and with the support of family and friends, life can continue in a positive way.