Depression is a serious disease that affects people across the world, especially here in Utah. It isn’t just having sad thoughts or a bad day. The Huffington Post asked people who suffer with depression what it feels like day-to-day. One person wrote,
“Depression is a state in which nothing tastes, smells, or feels right and you are unable to think or make decisions—yet you still have to carry on doing all those things. And so much of the time you just don’t have the energy or the desire. But you still carry on anyway.”
It can seem overwhelming if you don’t know how to combat those feelings. If you are unsure if you or a friend are struggling from depression check out this article. It will help you determine if your symptoms are a result of depression or some other illness. We have also compiled 5 Tips that those struggling with depression can do to minimize the negative effects.
In the meantime here are are some of society’s most damaging myths about depression.
Myth: You can stop yourself from being depressed
Depression is not something that you can just turn on and off. It is a real illness that needs real treatment. Many people have called the disease, “cancer of the mind.” You can’t stop yourself from being affected by cancer just like you can’t stop yourself from being affected by depression.
Myth: Teens are the most likely to suffer from depression and commit suicide
Depression affects people of all ages and situations. While we often hear more about teen suicides in the news; however, elderly individuals are just as affected by this illness.
Myth: Depression and suicide are more common now than in the past
Actually, the suicide rates have remained relatively constant over the years and is projected to begin a slight decline in the coming years.
Myth: Depression will go away on its own
If there is one thing that we hope you learn is that this illness is not the result of a personal decision. It will not go away on its own. However, it can be treated with the use of correct practices.
Myth: Antidepressants will change your personality
Antidepressants affect the chemicals that deal with depression. They do not change any chemicals that pertain to your “personality.” In fact, many people say that they enjoy antidepressants because it helps them feel like they are getting back to their happy self.
Myth: People can just think their way out of depression by being strong or positive
This is probably the most damaging myth to those that struggle with the disease. Let’s get one thing straight, having depression is not a sign of mental weakness. It is a real and proven illness that can affect all types of people, even those that are positive or viewed as “strong”.
Myth: Depression occurs because of traumatic life experiences
While there are certainly triggers that can affect depression and cause it to be more powerful, it doesn’t occur just because something sad has happened. The illness can affect someone that is living a perfectly normal and happy life.
Myth: Medicine is all you need
The treatment of depression is more than just taking a pill and being done. There are other effective treatments that help. A healthy diet and exercise is one thing that those suffering with the illness can do to alleviate some of their symptoms.
Myth: Talking about depression will make it worse.
If someone is suffering from depression, it may seem scary trying to talk to them about it, but it does help. People need to reassured that they are still loved and accepted regardless of how they are feeling inside.
Myth: Depression mainly affects women
Because of this myth, men often won’t get help for this condition. However, men are more likely than women to commit suicide. It is important that we get the message out that depression affects people of all ages.
If you want to learn about more myths of depression, the Mental Health America gave 7 myths that many people struggle with. If you or someone you love is struggling with feelings of depression, talk to your doctor. With their help you can get back to living life to the fullest.
If you need a doctor, call us at 801-724-9840. Our doctors will work with you to find the best solution.