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Published on: Jul 14, 2021
1 minute read
By: Global Covid Expert

Can Period Get Irregular Because Of COVID-19 ?

We have heard many reported instances that after being vaccinated against COVID-19, many people had unusual symptoms like swollen lymph nodes, “COVID arm” and blood clots. All these symptoms can be quite concerning since it is unclear the near-term impact. The side effects reported are believed to be associated with our body’s immune response to the vaccine. It's important to look at the reports of altered menstrual cycles after vaccination?

Currently is no concrete evidence that COVID-19 vaccines can have a direct effect on women’s menstrual cycles. The impact could be indirect as these changes may be associated with the body’s response to stress.

Let's look at how menstrual cycles can be affected by the immune system in an indirect way.

When a woman is about to ovulate, her immune system ramps itself up to prevent any infectious agents from interfering with the fertilization and implantation of the egg. Once the egg is fertilized and implants, the immune system dampens to accept the pregnancy. The lining of the uterus also has immune cells, and those cells can be affected by hormonal changes. Uterine infections can also cause changes in a woman’s normal menstrual cycle.

Hypothalamus in the brain is the hormonal control center that works in conjunction with the anterior pituitary gland. Emotional stress, physical stress, and chemical stress may affect the hormonal control center which can result in menstrual cycle changes.” Chemical stress applies to medications that can alter your period.

Women who are taking medications for seizure disorders, diabetes, thyroid conditions, hypertension, depression, or other conditions might notice irregularities with their menstrual cycles. These medications can interfere with the hormones that are responsible for menstruation.

When you experience period changes after being vaccinated for COVID-19 your healthcare provider can determine the best way to manage the disruption in your menstrual cycle. It is important to discuss any changes with your healthcare provider and best specialist doctor because they’ll be aware of what’s going on and you can work together to determine the best course of action.

Chronic stress can also affect your body’s normal cortisol production rhythm. An overabundance of cortisol can affect your metabolism, which can lead to obesity. It can also lead to sleep disturbances as well as changes in menstruation.

Women can do many things that may promote health are exercise, rest, and a healthy diet.

Take note of the things which cause stress around you as lot of factors in our environment can add to our stress. These things can influence our diet, sleep schedule, and medication regimen.

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Difference Between Sadness and Depression: Understanding Normal Emotions vs Mental Illness

Feeling low or unhappy is a part of being human. However, not all low moods are the same. Many people confuse sadness with depression, which can delay proper support and treatment. Understanding the difference between sadness and depression is crucial for mental health awareness, early intervention and reducing stigma.

In India, mental health conditions are often misunderstood, with emotional distress frequently dismissed as temporary sadness.

What Is Sadness?

Sadness is a normal human emotion.

It usually occurs due to:

loss or disappointment
relationship issues
failure or stress
temporary life challenges

Sadness serves a psychological purpose, allowing individuals to process emotions and adapt.

Key Characteristics of Sadness

Sadness is:

situational
temporary
emotionally painful but manageable
responsive to support and positive events

A person experiencing sadness can still function, enjoy moments and feel hopeful.

What Is Depression?

Depression is a medical condition classified as a mood disorder.

It affects:

emotions
thinking patterns
behaviour
physical health

According to WHO, depression is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide.

Core Symptoms of Depression

Depression involves a combination of symptoms such as:

persistent low mood
loss of interest or pleasure
fatigue
sleep disturbances
appetite changes
feelings of worthlessness
difficulty concentrating

These symptoms last at least two weeks or longer.

Duration: A Key Difference

One major difference lies in duration.

Sadness:

lasts hours or days
improves with time

Depression:

lasts weeks or months
persists despite positive events

Duration helps distinguish emotional response from illness.

Impact on Daily Functioning

Sadness:

allows continuation of work and relationships
may reduce motivation temporarily

Depression:

interferes with work, studies and relationships
reduces self-care and productivity

Functional impairment is a defining feature of depression.

Emotional Experience: Sadness vs Depression

Sadness:

allows emotional range
moments of joy still occur

Depression:

creates emotional numbness
joy and interest disappear

People with depression often describe feeling empty rather than sad.

Physical Symptoms in Depression

Depression is not only emotional.

Physical symptoms include:

chronic fatigue
body aches
headaches
digestive issues

ICMR mental health studies highlight the physical burden of depression.

Thought Patterns and Self-Perception

Sadness:

thoughts remain realistic
self-worth is preserved

Depression:

negative self-talk dominates
feelings of guilt and worthlessness increase

These cognitive changes deepen emotional suffering.

Risk Factors for Depression

Factors increasing depression risk include:

chronic stress
trauma
family history
medical illnesses
hormonal changes

NFHS-5 data indicates rising mental health concerns among young adults.

Can Sadness Turn Into Depression?

Yes, prolonged or unresolved sadness can progress into depression.

This is more likely when:

stressors are ongoing
support systems are weak
coping mechanisms are limited

Early emotional support can prevent progression.

When to Seek Professional Help

Seek help if:

low mood lasts more than two weeks
daily functioning is affected
sleep and appetite are disturbed
thoughts of self-harm occur

Early care leads to better outcomes.

Treatment Differences

Sadness:

improves with rest, support and time

Depression:

requires psychotherapy
may need medication
benefits from structured care

WHO emphasises early treatment to reduce disability.

Role of Social Support

Support systems help both conditions but are essential for recovery.

Depression recovery improves with:

understanding family
supportive workplaces
accessible mental healthcare

Stigma reduction is key.

Mental Health Awareness in India

Mental health remains underdiagnosed in India.

NITI Aayog reports:

limited access to mental health services
low awareness
high stigma

Education helps bridge this gap.

Importance of Early Recognition

Recognising depression early:

prevents worsening
reduces suicide risk
improves quality of life

Delay increases suffering and complications.

Supporting Someone With Depression

Helpful actions include:

listening without judgement
encouraging professional help
avoiding minimising feelings

Compassion is more effective than advice.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between sadness and depression is essential for emotional wellbeing and mental health care. Sadness is a natural, temporary response to life events, while depression is a serious medical condition that affects thoughts, emotions and daily functioning. Recognising the signs early and seeking appropriate help can prevent long-term suffering and promote recovery. Mental health deserves the same attention and care as physical health.

References

World Health Organization (WHO) – Depression and Mental Health Disorders
Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) – Mental Health Research and Burden
National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) – Mental Health Indicators
Lancet – Depression, Disability and Public Health
NITI Aayog – National Mental Health Policy and Awareness Reports
Statista – Global and Indian Mental Health Trends

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