Is grief the same as depression?
No. Grief is not the same as depression, even though the two can share some symptoms, such as sleep problems, guilt, and lack of interest.
Normal grief is different from major depression in several ways. In grief, painful feelings come and go instead of being constant. There are feelings of emptiness rather than steady sadness or an inability to feel pleasure. People keep good self-esteem and do not feel worthless. And if there are thoughts of suicide, they are usually focused on the person who died, such as a wish to join them, rather than thoughts about oneself.
A bereaved person can be diagnosed with major depression if they have symptoms that occur outside of the normal grief process. If you are not sure whether what you are feeling is grief or depression, it is okay to ask your doctor for help sorting it out.
If you ever have thoughts of harming yourself, get help right away by dialing 911 in an emergency or calling, texting, or chatting 988 to reach the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
Want the full picture? Read our complete explanation: Grief, Loss, and Cancer: Coping With Loss
Know someone who needs this?
Plenty of people are looking for something like this and do not know where to start. If this would help a friend or someone you love, send it on — we have written an opening line so you do not have to stare at an empty message. You can change every word of it.
Your message is written and sent in your own email or messaging app — we never see who you send it to, and nothing is added to any list.