Myths About Depression

Depression is depressing enough on it's own without the extra help of myths. False information regarding the disease is confusing, exacerbates the problem and feeds the stigma.

I don't know how these myths are started, or where they come from but I know that a large part of the population believes them. Word of mouth spreads these falsehoods quickly. Having access to accurate information is so important. Being armed with correct information empowers those who suffer and helps them to feel less hopeless and alone. We need to educate those with and without depression and help them see that it is an illness and not a mood.

Let's bust five myths right now.

Myth 1: Depression isn't a real illness

Depression isn't just a bout of sadness, it's a legit disease. When people say that depression isn't a real illness, it implies that it is just a case of the blues that someone should easily be able to shake. But that's just not true. Depression is actually a multifaceted condition that is caused by environmental, biological and social factors. It affects the persons brain and has a negative impact on their thoughts, emotions and actions. You cannot just "snap out of" depression. The disease causes extreme distress and impairment and requires long-term treatment.

Myth 2: Depression is only caused by traumatic events

The exact cause of depression is unknown but environmental, biological and genetic factors play a large role. Traumatic events can trigger depression, but they are not the only factor. Depression can sprout without any cause at all in anyone, even if their life is amazing.

Myth 3: Depression will go away on its own

In order to overcome your depression symptoms you will need to seek treatment from a professional. Without treatment, depression can last for years, or could lead to self-harming behaviors or suicide. Ignoring depression will not make it go away and seeking treatment does not make you weak. It makes you brave and self-aware.

Myth 4: Women only experience depression

The common misconception that depression on affects only women suggests that it is non-existent in men, which is absolutely untrue. Due to social pressures, men have a harder time admitting that they are suffering from depression. They have fears of looking weak or less masculine. These fears prevent them from showing vulnerability, discussing their feelings or seeking help. Although women are predisposed to depression due to societal and cultural pressures, men suffering from depression are more likely to commit suicide than women. The suicide rate among men is four times higher than it is in women.

Myth 5: Depression is a weakness

Depression is a disease that stems from a chemical imbalance not a character flaw. People do not choose to be depressed, nor can they choose to not be depressed. Depression is only viewed as a weakness due to the stigma that is associated not only with depression but with all mental health conditions. Our society is to blame for this stigma and it is not a true reflection of a person's condition or mental, emotional or physical strength.

Addressing and putting an end to the stigma is key here. The stigma and prejudice around mental health conditions isn't only unreasonable, its downright dangerous. The stigma prevents so many people from admitting that they have a problem and from seeking help. Besides raising awareness, debunking the myths about mental health conditions will help to end the stigma. Let's educate with facts and not ignite fear with untruths. Increasing a general understanding of these conditions in the population is the best thing we can do to end the stigma.