When we lose someone - through death or a broken relationship - it is quite common for sadness, grief, or anxiety to emerge at some point. While it might seem like depression, grief is actually quite different.
Depression is marked by negative thoughts and feelings about oneself - low self-esteem and self-worth. Grief, on the other hand, is marked by distress over the loss of another or, in severe cases, overwhelming separation anxiety.
About a third of people experiencing grief go on to develop a depression, but it is usually weeks or months later. Loss can lead to changes in one's life - pleasurable things that were once done together, for example, are no longer done - and these in turn can lead to depression.
Counselling is usually the best treatment for grief. Some counsellors specialise in grief and loss counselling.
Further information on counsellors
How to tell if you or someone else might be depressed
If you would like further information on grief, please refer to Chapter 8 - Dealing with Depression: A common sense guide to mood disorders, by Gordon Parker, Allen & Unwin 2004.
Page last updated: 23-Apr-2008
Depression and Bipolar Disorder Information Australia - Black Dog Institute.
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