What's the Difference Between Stress and Depression?

**The problem:** You feel terrible and you don't know whether what you're experiencing is normal life stress or something that needs attention. **The answer:** The core difference is context and recovery. **Stress** is a response to an identifiable pressure. It typically improves when the pressure is removed or resolved. It's time-limited and usually tied to something specific — a deadline, a conflict, a change. **Depression** doesn't need a cause, and removing the stressor doesn't fix it. It's persistent — lasting weeks or months rather than days. And it typically involves: - Loss of interest in things that used to matter - Consistent low energy, even after rest - Difficulty concentrating or making decisions - Feelings of worthlessness or emptiness - Physical symptoms — disturbed sleep, appetite changes, weight shifts One key test: **is there relief?** With stress, there are moments of calm. With depression, even good days can feel hollow. If you're unsure, talk to your GP. Describing it as *"I haven't felt like myself in a few months"* is enough to start.