Like clinical depression, there are many causes of situational depression like the death of a loved one, marital problems, retirement, or bullying at school. The root of these causes, though, is the same: stress. People who cannot deal with stress are more at risk of suffering from situational depression.
This type of depression has symptoms similar to that of clinical depression. These include changes to a person’s emotional condition (such as sadness, or pessimism), or behavioral condition (such as irritability, or turning to drugs). It also includes changes in physical condition (such as chronic headaches or stomach aches).
For a case to be diagnosed as situational depression, a person needs to undergo physical and psychological exams first so that physical illnesses or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can be ruled out as the cause of the symptoms.
Clinical Depression Vs Situational Depression
Clinical depression vs situational depression has two major differences.
Length of the Depression
As stated earlier, clinical depression is persistent and can last for years. Meanwhile, situational depression may go away when the person adapts to the new situation or talks about the event that triggered the depression.
That means a person with clinical depression may recover faster than someone with situational depression. However, this doesn’t mean that situational depression has less of an effect on a person. Both types can affect the mental well-being of a person in serious ways. Further, if situational depression persists, then it can eventually develop into clinical depression.
Clinical Depression Vs Situational Depression: Triggers
Specific events in a person’s life trigger situational depression. Such major events can also trigger clinical depression. However, genetics or substance dependence can also trigger clinical depression.
If you experience any of the events or symptoms stated above, don’t keep your condition a secret. Remember, depression is a common mental condition because it affects many people. The most important step is to consult your doctor so that you can take steps to manage and eventually, overcome your depression.
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