Myths about depression that are not true

MENTAL HEALTH

Depression is a common and serious mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Individuals with depression experience persistent feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in almost all activities. These feelings can interfere with daily functioning, impacting work, school, relationships, and physical health.

There are several common myths about depression that can contribute to misunderstandings and stigma surrounding the condition. Here are a few of the most prevalent ones:

Only women experience depression

Anyone, at any age, can feel depressed. Gender is not the only thing that decides how someone’s mental health develops. So it’s not true that only women experience depression.

However, it is true that women are more likely to experience depression than men. According to the American Psychiatric Association (APA), women are 1.5 to 3 times more likely to suffer from depression. Several factors contribute to this increased risk, including hormonal fluctuations and postpartum depression. Women are also often more emotionally attuned and may focus more on negative experiences, which has been linked to higher rates of depression. Globally, more than 10 percent of pregnant women and those who have recently given birth experience depression.

To sum up, the disparity in depression rates between women and men can be attributed to a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors. Women are generally more susceptible to emotional issues, which contributes to their higher likelihood of experiencing depression compared to men.

Depression is far from rare; according to a WHO report from 2019, approximately 280 million people worldwide are affected by depression, making it a prevalent mental health issue, with an estimated 3.8 percent of the global population experiencing it. This includes 5 percent of adults—4 percent of men and 6 percent of women—and 5.7 percent of adults over 60 years old. Notably, depression is about 50 percent more common among women than men.

Depression impacts individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and demographics, highlighting its widespread nature and the need for comprehensive understanding and support.

Depression will go away on its own

Depression does not resolve on its own. Simply being around someone who is also feeling sad will not magically alleviate the symptoms or cure the condition. Without proper treatment and care, depression can persist or worsen over time. Untreated depression can last for weeks, months, or even years.

Many individuals actively manage their depression through medications, psychotherapy, and other treatments. While some symptoms of depression may improve on their own, others may require professional treatment depending on the severity and type of depression.

Children can’t get depressed

Depression can occur at any age, though it often begins in adulthood. Children and teenagers can also experience depression, although their symptoms might differ from those seen in adults. For instance, children may display irritability rather than sadness.

Childhood depression is distinct from typical mood fluctuations. If a child appears persistently sad or irritable, and if these feelings interfere with their daily activities, social interactions, school performance, or family life, it may indicate a depressive illness. It’s important to distinguish between normal developmental changes and symptoms that require professional attention.

Factors that can increase the risk of depression include bullying, emotional or physical abuse, and family difficulties. Additionally, depression can be triggered by challenging events such as parental separation, bereavement, or problems with school or peers.

Depression is a sign of weakness

Depression is not a weakness or a character flaw. It is a serious mental health condition characterized by prolonged sadness and a loss of interest in activities once enjoyed. Depression can affect how you feel, think, and act, leading to both emotional and physical issues. It may make it difficult to carry out daily activities, and sometimes it can make life seem unmanageable.

Some people mistakenly believe that depression is not a serious health problem, but it is indeed a genuine illness with real symptoms. It is not a sign of weakness or something that can be overcome simply by trying harder. Depression is more than temporary sadness; it requires time and appropriate treatment to improve.

Depression is just feeling sad

Sadness is just one part of depression. While sadness is a normal reaction to loss, disappointment, or difficult situations, it is temporary and part of the human experience. In these cases, feelings of sadness usually pass quickly, allowing you to continue with your daily life.

In contrast, depression is a mental illness that impacts your mood, self-perception, and interactions with the world around you. Unlike temporary sadness, depression can persist without a clear cause and affect your daily functioning. People with depression may feel worthless or hopeless, experience unwarranted guilt, or exhibit irritability and anger. Depression is more than just feeling sad; it deeply influences how you perceive yourself and your surroundings.

It is important to recognize that depression is a medical condition, not a sign of weakness or something that can be easily “snapped out of.” With proper treatment and support, many people with depression can lead fulfilling lives. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, seeking professional help is a crucial step towards recovery.