Rebecca Keller, MSW, LCSW, is an Outpatient Therapist with Welcare Counseling Services.

A new client, Barbara, called me recently to share the fact that she had been feeling “down.”

“I just don’t know if I’m depressed,” she said in a worried voice. I reassured her that she was taking the right step in calling me, and we made an appointment to meet.

As I sat beside her during that first session, she talked about the recent death of a good friend in her community along with problems adjusting to shorter days of the Fall season. As I continued this assessment, I had the opportunity to educate Barbara about the difference between the blues and depression.

The blues can be referred to as “feeling down” or “not up to par.” They are often feelings of sadness that last for a short period of time. With the blues, one can also experience changes in energy, appetite, and overall sense of well-being.

Just as Barbara found, individuals can experience the blues at certain times of the year. Although the holiday seasons are joyful for many, others find them emotionally challenging. Likewise, some struggle when the seasons change, and darkness comes earlier in the day.

We all know someone who has experienced “life stressors,” with problems in financial, health, or relationships. These stressors can commonly result in feelings of sadness or a decreased sense of well-being called the blues.

You may ask, “What if I have these symptoms and more?” As a clinician, I would certainly assess for what is commonly known as depression. More formally known as “Major Depressive Disorder,” this diagnosis falls under the category of Mood Disorders.

The following are symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder, referred to as “depression” for the remainder of this article:

• Feelings of guilt
• Low self-worth
• Disturbed sleep and/or appetite
• Low energy
• Poor concentration
• Thoughts of death

These symptoms are not intended for you to diagnose yourself. I always recommend talking with a professional who is able to recognize the difference between the blues and depression by the number of symptoms you are experiencing as well as finding out more about your current situation.

There are times when I have clients do a “status check” by rating their mood for a definite period of time. It is also helpful to know how long the symptoms have occurred as well as if they are getting better or worse over a period of time.

Whether it is the blues or depression, treatment is available to help you or a loved one through this time. Psychotherapy, also known as counseling, can be an effective way to share your feelings and develop coping skills. Medication, as prescribed by your doctor, or a psychiatrist, is also an option for treating these symptoms. There are risks in not seeking help, such as worsening symptoms and a negative impact on daily life.

Remember Barbara? It turns out that she did have the blues but found that short-term counseling was helpful in coping during this time in her life.