Which term describes severe sadness?

Melancholia is a term that specifically refers to a profound state of sadness or depression, often characterized by a deep sense of hopelessness and despair. Historically, it has been associated with clinical depression and is often used to describe a mood disorder where the individual experiences overwhelming feelings of sorrow and a lack of pleasure in daily activities. This term captures not only the emotional state of severe sadness but also its potential impact on one’s cognitive functioning and physical health.

The other terms provided do not align with the notion of severe sadness. Hysteria typically refers to psychological disorders characterized by exaggerated or uncontrollable emotional outbursts, often stemming from stress or trauma, rather than a persistent state of sadness. Mania involves an elevated or irritable mood, characterized by hyperactivity, increased energy, and often a decreased need for sleep, which is quite the opposite of severe sadness. Delusion refers to a false belief held with strong conviction, often found in psychotic disorders, and is not directly related to feelings of sadness. Thus, melancholia stands out as the correct term to describe severe sadness.