4 Differences Between Depression and Grief

Sometimes when grief is not expressed well, it turns into depression. Depression shares common features with grief.  Misdiagnosis can result in overlooking depression when it is present and inappropriately treating grief.

The following graph lists 4 differences between depression & grief. 

	Depression	Grief
Moods	Moods & feelings are static.	Moods & feelings are experienced in waves.
Sadness	Sad mood about everything.	Sadness is centered on loss.
Intensity	Consistent sense of depletion.	Feelings diminish in intensity over time.
Self-Image	Sense of worthlessness and disturbed self-image.	Healthy self-image.

 

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