Basically, it's a less intense version of
depression, though it differs from it in a lot of ways.
People who are depressed just feel worthless and think that nothing could cure them or make them happy. However, melancholia isn't like that and it's more narcissistic, making the sufferer want 'better' feelings (or better
life) - longing for love, the past (if nostalgic) and just want their gaps to be filled. They'd daydream about being with what they long for and such.
Most people with melancholia would think about having a lover and how sad it makes that they still don't have one. They are not depressed (as said) - they cope well with
life activities, but they lack that something that fills them up (doesn't have to be a lover though - could be a job, friend, family and even their computer or musical instrument).
NOTE: At times, though, a sustained and intense melancholia may lead to
depression.
I need a lover. I want someone to fill up the
gap in my
heart. I smile, I laugh, I do my daily activities (not depressed), but I
long for to be with someone - I have melancholia on a daily basis. :(
