What’s reactive depression?

Reactive depression, also known as situational depression, is a form of depression ^[1] that can result from a stressful life event. It’s sometimes referred to as adjustment disorder or acute stress-related disorder ^[2]. Unlike major depressive disorder (MDD) and other lifelong depressive disorders, reactive depression is temporary. However, while present, it can seriously affect a person’s well-being. 

Reactive depression shares many symptoms with MDD. It can impact a person’s mood, eating and sleeping habits, motivation, energy level, and more. While it’s not an officially recognized depressive disorder, reactive depression may require professional help. 

So even if you’re having what some might consider a “typical” response to a challenging situation, there’s nothing wrong with seeking support. Life is full of challenges we can’t always anticipate. In difficult seasons, therapy can provide a safe space to process your experiences, cope with hardship or loss, and discover healthy ways to manage stress. 

Symptoms of reactive depression

The symptoms of reactive depression mirror those of MDD. But, like other conditions, reactive depression symptoms can range in severity. For example, someone experiencing acute reactive depression may experience more intense symptoms. But a person with mild reactive depression may have more manageable symptoms. 

Some of the most common signs ^[1] of reactive depression include:

• A noticeable decline in mood, often feeling sad or hopeless

• Crying all the time (or feeling like you might)

• Having trouble falling or staying asleep

• Eating too much or too little

• Physical aches and pains (i.e. stomachaches or headaches)

• Feeling tired all the time

• No longer doing the activities you used to enjoy

• Social withdrawal

• Absences at work or school

• Difficulty with focus and concentration

• Trouble making decisions

With reactive depression, these symptoms usually last less than two weeks ^[2]. But everyone is different, and there’s no exact timeline for this experience. 

Reactive depression can look similar to grief and trauma, but it’s not exactly the same. Trauma often involves a stressful re-experiencing of the distressing event, and grief is the normal human response to a painful loss.

Reactive depression vs. major depression

Although reactive depression and MDD share symptoms, here’s what sets them apart: 

• MDD: When someone has a single depressive episode that meets the criteria for MDD, they’ll likely have subsequent episodes. For many, MDD is a lifelong condition. A person can develop MDD without any identifiable trigger.

• Reactive depression: With reactive depression, symptoms are time-limited. Recurrence is possible, but when that happens, the condition has likely evolved into MDD or another depressive disorder. Reactive depression is always a response to an identifiable trigger(s).

Causes of reactive depression

Reactive depression can arise out of stressful circumstances, like:

• Getting fired or laid off

• Going through a divorce or breakup

• Big transitions like having a baby or relocating

• The death of a friend or loved one

Any major or unanticipated change can create added stress and anxiety, and that can lead to reactive depression. Even seemingly “small” stressors can accumulate and take a toll on your mental health. But no matter what triggers your reactive depression, it’s OK to ask for help.

What happens when reactive depression goes unnoticed

Without the right support, it may take longer to bounce back from reactive depression. Because when you feel sad, unmotivated, or fatigued, it can be harder to care for yourself and others, attend to your responsibilities, and maintain your well-being. 

Experiencing reactive depression doesn’t mean that there’s something wrong with you or your mental health. On the contrary, it’s a normal human response to life’s stressors. But that doesn’t mean you have to face it alone. Getting treatment for reactive depression can help you heal faster and can start feeling like yourself again.

Treatments for reactive depression

Life is full of ups and downs. Sometimes, difficult things happen when we least expect them. There isn’t always immediate relief for emotional discomfort. 

So if you’re experiencing reactive depression, you may need to sit with some sadness, worry, or fear for a little while. During this time, try to prioritize rest, fuel your body with nutritious food or snacks, lean on your support network, and make time for activities that lift your spirit. 

Self-compassion and self-care can go a long way when it comes to dealing with reactive depression. But if you need additional support, don’t hesitate to ask for help. For example, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and mindfulness-based therapy are frequently used to treat MDD ^[3]. So they may be helpful for people experiencing reactive or situational depression. 

In addition, some people manage their depression with medication. However, some medications can take several weeks to start working ^[4]. So be sure to talk to your psychiatric care provider about the pros and cons of this approach.

Clinician’s take

Reactive depression is often dismissed because it has a clear trigger, which leads people to believe it should be easier to overcome. That belief can increase self-blame and delay support. When people feel they should handle it alone, healing often takes longer.

Brandy Chalmers, LPC

Clinical reviewer