Depression is not only difficult to diagnose, it can be difficult to treat as well. This difficulty mostly comes from the stigma and myths that surround depression, making it hard for people to come forward about their mental health. Here are 10 common myths about depression that are definitely not true.
1. Depression Only Lives In The Mind
You might be tempted to start taking mushrooms for depression, but there is more to it than just the mental part. It is a psychological, social, and biological disorder that can’t just be turned off. The body and mind are very connected, so it takes a lot of treatment to manage.
2. Depression Is A Normal Part Of Life
Depression isn’t normal and it isn’t something that people should just “get over.” No one should make the journey alone and should get all the help that they need to start healing. Depression isn’t normal if you get older either; it can afflict anyone at any age.
3. Depression Is The Same As Feeling Sad
Feeling down and having depression are two different things. Depression lasts for a few weeks and can even last for over a year without treatment or intervention. Sadness typically goes away on its own; depression does not.
4. Medication Is The Best Option
Medication is not the only option for those who have depression. Therapy can also work for most people, and different kinds of therapy can choose from to help with their depression. The best form of treatment is medication combined with therapy.
5. Only People Who Have Experienced Trauma Can Have Depression
A traumatic event does not need to take place for a person to experience depression. It can be triggered by any event or nothing at all. It’s dependent on the person.
6. Depression Is A Sign Of Weakness
No one chooses to be depressed. The reason society views it as a weakness is because it has been stigmatized. It is a condition that has nothing to do with how physically or mentally strong you are.
7. Depression Feels The Same For Everyone
It is not a one-size-fits-all condition. What it looks like for one person is completely different for another person. Because each individual is different, changes in the brain plus hormonal changes can change the severity and physical displays of depression.
8. Depression Isn’t Genetic
This isn’t true; as much as 50% of major depression has a genetic component involved. It is a combination of genetic and external life experiences that determine if depression will surface or not.
9. Therapy Doesn’t Work
Therapy is for anyone and everyone, especially for those who are struggling to overcome their difficulties with depression. There should not be a stigma involved with seeking help from a mental health professional.
10. Mostly Women Get Depression
Although depression is higher in women than men, it’s not by much. Depression presents in different ways between men and women; there’s just a stigma against men talking about their feelings and emotions.
If you feel that you may be experiencing symptoms of depression, it’s important to know that you don’t have to deal with it alone. Reach out to your primary care doctor to find out what mental health support and treatment might be right for you.
