Myths & Truths.
“Clear as mud” best explains the blurred lines of understanding on the differences between normal responses of sadness and clinical depression. Depression is much more than just “feeling blue” — it’s a complex web of emotional, biological, and environmental factors.
According to recent data from the World Health Organization (2023), 280 million people in our world struggle with depression. Throughout the years following the quarantine required of COVID-19, these numbers have only seen a rapid and steep increase.
Despite these statistics, many myths about depressive disorders continue to circulate throughout society. Delving into and dismantling these misconceptions will reveal the unadulterated truths that shed an informed light on this mental health condition.
The Myths & Truths of Depression
Myth: Depression is “all in your head” & people experiencing depression just need to “be more positive.”
Historically, many have not and do not view depression as a genuine condition, but a choice or deficit in personality traits.
Truth: Not only is depression a valid condition, but it can be diagnosed and treated.
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), depression is characterized by physical and emotional symptoms, triggered by a combination of physical, mental, biological, and environmental factors. Treatment includes the involvement of a licensed mental health professional and medication when necessary.
Myth: Only people of a certain demographic experience depression.
It’s common belief that depression only happens to women, and receiving a diagnosis/treatment is an act reserved only for individuals of a certain socioeconomic status.
Truth: Women, Black, and Latin communities are disproportionately challenged by depression due to various societal influences.
However, the condition does not discriminate between gender or any other demographic factors. Common misconceptions depict depression as only challenging women and specific ethnic groups. Recognizing symptoms despite these characteristics is critical to determining the need for care.
Myth: Depression is the same as “ just feeling sad.”
People often diminish or dismiss depression as simply being a fleeting intense feeling of sadness, not warranting intervention.
Truth: A genuine diagnosis of depression can involve a culmination of physical, cognitive, environmental, and emotional components.
The diverse array of symptoms experienced are unique to the individual diagnosed, and the influences to developing this condition are multifaceted. Living with untreated depression significantly impacts one’s quality of life.
Myth: Depression is a sign of weakness.
Someone experiencing depression is a valid indicator of their resilience and general strength.
Truth: Having depression is not a choice by the individual diagnosed.
Depression does not discriminate, and the negative stigma surrounding the condition has been perpetuated by society. There is not a relation between depression and the strength of a person’s character.
Myth: Depression can only be treated with medicine.
Receiving a depression diagnosis will mean a lifetime of taking personality-altering medications.
Truth: There are multiple different types and intensities of depression one can experience.
The symptoms experienced are also subject to the lifestyle and health of the patient diagnosed. Some forms of depression require medication, while others may not. Medications for mental health conditions should be taken alongside the receipt of interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), to ensure the underlying causes of depression and symptoms are addressed.
Myth: Depression can be cured by distraction.
Misguided perceptions of this condition portray “keeping busy enough” as the depression fix.
Truth: Physical activity and quality time with loved ones are often healthy coping responses encouraged throughout depression treatment.
Nevertheless, these actions alone do not dictate recovery. This complex condition simply can’t be treated with avoidance, but with the support of a health professional.
Myth: Talking about depression makes it worse.
This misconception comes as a result of the ongoing negative stigma attached to the topic of mental health in general. Consequently, the subject of mental health conditions are often avoided in conversation.
Truth: Talking about depression does not worsen the condition itself.
Frankly, depression should be discussed with loved ones and/or a health professional, as outside support is often necessary for the treatment of this mental health condition. CBT is often integral to treating depression due to its focus on the impacts of negative thought patterns.
Conclusion
Depression is a much deeper concern than its perpetuated stereotypes. Evidence-based understandings pave the way for progression in our society regarding related mental health stigmas. Luckily, ongoing research on depression has contributed to the upward trend of embracing the truths of this condition. In unveiling the facts about depression to gain clarity on this multifaceted condition, those diagnosed can be better understood and more efficiently supported.
For immediate text support for depression in the U.S. — Text HOME to 741741 to reach a trained Crisis Counselor through Crisis Text Line, a global not-for-profit organization. Free, 24/7, confidential.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only & should not replace the personalized professional medical advice of your healthcare provider.
*This article was originally published in Mindful Mental Health
Resources:
https://www.psycom.net/depression/major-depressive-disorder/dsm-5-depression-criteria
https://medium.com/r/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.forbes.com%2Fhealth%2Fmind%2Fdepression-statistics%2F