Common Depression Misconceptions

Depression is one of the most common mental disorders, it is estimated that 1 in 5 people will become depressed at some point in their lives. The misconceptions that people have contribute towards the stigma associated with depression and this may discourage people from seeking help when they may really need it. Here are some of the common misconceptions related to depression:

"Depression is just feeling sad"
Depression is much more than this. Feeling sad is part of depression, these feelings are more persistent than a normal mood state and can be a lot more intense. There are other symptoms of depression too such as, change is appetite, feeling worthless, loss of interest in activities that you once enjoyed or that form part of an everyday routine to name but a few. When people are depressed these symptoms often last for more than two weeks.

"Depression goes away on it's own"
Depression is a medical condition that needs treatment and it is often the case that symptoms will worsen if they are not treated. It is important to get help and get treatment.

"Depression is a sign of weakness"
Not at all. Depression is a serious medical condition that could affect anyone regardless of their character. No one should feel weak because they are suffering with depression.

"Depression is treated by drugs with serious side effects"
Medication is not the only treatment for depression. There are several psychological treatments available too, like counselling. Some anti depressants do have side effects, like many other drugs, but not everybody will be effected and they are not serious. Mostly, they will improve over time as your body gets used to the medication. The benefits of the treatments will outweigh any of the problems related to side effects.

"Talking about depression will just make it worse"
Being alone with your thoughts is much more harmful than sharing them. Having someone to listen that is supportive and non judgmental is a highly crucial step in the treatment of depression.

 "If I tell people about how I feel, they'll judge me."
The whole world does not need to know about your depression, seeking the right help, from the right people is very important. No health professional will ever judge you, because they understand. Don't be frightened to speak to loved ones about how you feel, it may be the best thing you ever do.