We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.
It can also be confusing to figure out if what you’re experiencing is actually sadness or if it’sdepression.
Sadness is “a normal human emotion,” wrote Winch.
We all get sad from time to time.
Often times, sadness will dissipate after the triggering circumstance ends or resolves.
Depression, on the other hand, is a pervasive “abnormalemotional state,” according to the psychologist.
“When we’re depressed we feel sad abouteverything,” Winch explained.
Like sadness, depression is also common.
However, it is a major mood disorder one that should be evaluated bya medical professional.
Just as there are many obvious causes for feeling sad, there are manynot-so-obvious reasons, too.
According to experts, here are some unexpected reasons why you’re not happy.
But it’s not doing us any favors.
They also reported a much higher degree of satisfaction with their lives as a whole.
But it’s not really so black and white.
Nevertheless, putting too much stock in what money can buy is not going to lead to happiness.
And, unfortunately, unhappiness only leads to more isolation.
Whenupsettingthings happen, it’s perfectly okay to beupset.
You may find that by trying to avoid feeling your emotions, you end up not happy.
Are you being ruled by your emotions?
Yes, you shouldallow yourself to feel your emotions, but you never want to becontrolledby them.
If you let negative emotions take over, unhappiness is sure to follow.
Before reacting to an emotional trigger, take a deep breath to “stabilize the overwhelming impulse.”
Harra also recommends finding a “healthy outlet” such as journaling,exercising, ormeditating for your emotions.
“Life is too short to associate with people like this.
Cut them loose and watch your emotional intelligence soar.”
But what if you’re free to’t removea negative personfrom your life?
What if it’s a coworker or a beloved family member?
Bradberry recommends setting boundaries and creating distance.
“The complainer will then either quiet down or redirect the conversation in a productive direction.”
As you’re free to imagine, judgment and criticism aren’t exactly best buds withhappiness.
This means your goals aren’t going to look the same as someone else’s.
You’ve succumbed to self-pity
If “why me?”
Does everyone truly hate you or are you generalizing?
Even if someoneis indeed angry with you, the whole world is not against you, right?
If you’re constantly trying to impress people, your happiness is likely suffering.
This plan also has a habit of backfiring, according topsychotherapist Sean Grover.
If so, your happiness may have taken a hit.
You’ll also want to pay special attention to your physical needs.
When your body isn’t getting what it needs, it can be hard to feel happy.
Are you getting therecommended amount of sleepeach night?
The American Psychological Associationstatedthat “more sleep would make [Americans] happier, healthier, and safer.”
Are you eating abalanced diet?
OneAustralian studyfound that a person’s wellbeing and happiness can be increased by simply eating more fruits and vegetables.
What if it’s more than sadness?
Unlike a bout of temporary sadness, depression can be long-lasting and may require professional help.
If you are experiencing anysymptoms of depression, like irritability or hopelessness, consult your doctor.
