1. Duration: Being in a bad mood is usually short-term, which can be days or weeks, while depression lasts longer, usually at least two weeks or even months or years.
2. Intensity: Being in a bad mood usually does not affect a person's normal life and function, while depression can lead to obvious dysfunction, such as affecting the ability to work, study and socialize.
3. Diversity: Depression is often accompanied by a variety of physiological and psychological symptoms, including insomnia, appetite change, fatigue, attention problems, negative thinking, inferiority complex and so on. And being in a bad mood usually only manifests as depression.
4. Frequency: Being in a bad mood is usually emotional fluctuation, while depression is a persistent depression that exists every day.
5. Reaction: Being in a bad mood may be a normal reaction to a specific event or situation, while depression often has no clear cause.
6. Social impact: Depression can lead to the breakdown of interpersonal relationships, while being in a bad mood usually has no obvious impact on social relationships.
It should be noted that the above are just some common differences and cannot be used as the basis for the diagnosis of depression. If you or someone you know has symptoms such as persistent depression, loss of interest and fun, changes in sleep and appetite, fatigue and attention problems, it is recommended to seek the help of a professional doctor for evaluation and diagnosis.