Everyone knows that a divorce and the situations, processes and events that come with it are sad. Even if the marriage has been crumbling for some time and there is a feeling of relief when the marriage ends, there is usually still some sadness. How can you tell if your sadness has become more than just sadness? Are you really just sad or could you be suffering from depression? Here are some tips to help you understand the difference.

Typically, when you're sad, you may cry a lot and you may not feel like doing much for a little while. This is quite normal behavior for someone who has just gotten a divorce. However, depression can go much deeper and affect you differently. Depression can cause insomnia or the unbearable exhaustion. You may not want to get out of bed at all, even if you're not tired. It can feel as if you're hiding from the world. You may not have an appetite at all and most sufferers experience an excruciating sense of loss.

Take a deeper look at your symptoms to determine whether you are suffering from sadness or real depression. Many people who are depressed entertain thoughts of suicide and if you have experienced this at all, it's time to get help. When you are depressed, you are unable to think clearly. Similar to being under the influence of a drug, you may make decisions or do things that you would normally never do. Finding help is of the utmost importance.

It's perfectly normal to feel sad after a divorce. In fact, it's part of the natural healing process after going through a stressful, traumatic event. However, depression is not normal and may require treatment with medication, therapy or something else. If, after a few weeks or months, you don't start to feel better and more optimistic about your life and the future, you may be suffering from depression. Here are some helpful tips:

Visit friends. Simply talking to someone may be enough to pull you out of your sadness.

Take a class. Whether you learn about art, crafts or something else, you will gain new confidence and focusing on something other than the divorce is very helpful.

Start a new diet and exercise program. Becoming healthier after your divorce will help you with self esteem issues and confidence. Focusing on yourself is very important.

When you focus on yourself and take time to pamper yourself and learn new things, you can prevent your sadness from turning into depression. If you think that you are depressed at all, get help immediately so you can take back control of your life and feel better.