According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, over 322 million peole worldwide live with depression. Despite that daunting number, many misconceptions about depression still exist. Many still think of depression as just being really sad, but with the right attitidue and motivation a person can snap out of it.
However, depression isn’t something an attitude adjustment can fix. It is a medical condition where the chemistry of your brain and its function is not as it should be. Let’s break down some of the myths of depression so that we can better help ourselves and those we love with depression.
Myth #1: Depression happens because something bad happened
A sad or traumatizing event can raise your risk of depresssion. However, depression can appear without explanation as well. Your life may be going very well, yet you feel depressed.
Just because life is going well does not mean that a person can’t have depression or shouldn’t have depressoin. All situations are relative and depression can affect anyone, no matter their situation.
Myth #2: You should be able to “snap out of it”
Just as someone doesn’t choose to be depressed, also means that they can’t just choose to snap out of it right away. As previously discussed, depression is an imbalance in your brain chemistry. Your environment and your genetics affects it.
If you or a loved one are struggling with depression, there are a number of treatment options. These include:
- therapy
- lifestyle changes
- medication
- psychotherapy
Myth #3: It’s easy to spot someone with depression
Many think that depression is just being really sad. However, depression is not the same thing as being sad. Other than appearing sad, the person may actually appear extra happy and have a lot of energy. Comedians such as Jim Carrey and Ellen Degeners are known to have suffered from Major Depressive Disorder.
Somtimes it is the person we least suscept who have depression, perhaps because they have gotten so well at masking it. Therefore, it is important to look out for other symptoms, such as:
- Bad memory
- Feeling tired
- Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
- Feeling angry
- Unable to meet responsibilities
- Overeating or not eating at all
Myth #4: If you are functioning well, you must not be depressed
With the vast amount of people worldwide with depression, it is evident that many are able to function in their daily lives. Now, it may be more difficult for them to move forward but they absolutely can. This is why depression is often called the invisible illness. We can still go on with our lives with depression sitting just beneath the surface.
Myth #5: Depression is temporary and will just go away
Depression does not go away on its own. It is a medical disorder that requires your attention and the help and support of others. Depression is like asthma. Merely because we wish it away does not mean that wishing will take care of it. On the other hand, just like asthma, there are treatments for depression. Those with depression can still lead fulfilling and happy lives with help and treatment.
Struggling with depression? Learn how we can help.