depressing

Depressing is an English adjective formed as the present participle of the verb depress. It describes something that causes sadness, gloom, or discouragement and is used to characterize objects, events, or situations. Examples include "a depressing film," "depressing news," and "depressing weather."

It is not a clinical term. "Depressed" describes a person’s mood or a longer-lasting state, while "depression" refers to a mental health condition. "Depressing" focuses on the effect something has on emotions rather than on a medical diagnosis.

In media and everyday language, depressing content is often bleak, somber, or starkly realistic. The judgment is subjective and influenced by personal experience, context, and cultural norms.

Etymology: the word derives from the verb depress, with the -ing suffix forming an adjective or participle; its roots lie in Latin and Old French through the verb to press down. For individuals experiencing persistent sadness or hopelessness, professional help should be sought.