These are 6 common misconceptions about Depression
These are from an article I read
This explains it better than I ever could
It’s all in your head.
Some people deny the fact that depression is a real illness. The truth is that depression is a legitimate medical condition related to brain chemistry, function, structure, and sometimes involves environmental or biological factors. Symptoms of depression can include aches and pains, sleeping too much or too little, and extreme lethargy. Additionally, it can cause people to have feelings of hopelessness, sadness, and self-doubt. Suicidal thoughts are not uncommon. It’s important to know that depression is treatable through medication and/or psychotherapy, and that recovery is possible.
Depression only affects women.
Our culture sometimes discourages men from discussing their feelings, asking for help or showing signs of weakness. As a result, some men turn away from treatment. Men are four times more likely to die by suicide than women, and white males over the age of 45 are most vulnerable, according to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. If you are a man experiencing depression or have thoughts of suicide, know that you are not alone. According to research done by the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately six million American men go through depression each year. Our culture must acknowledge the importance of mental health treatment for everyone who needs it and this includes men.
Depression is a sign of weakness.
Depression can affect anyone regardless of physical or mental strength. Some of America’s most well-known citizens – including Abraham Lincoln, Terry Bradshaw, and Judy Collins - have experienced depression. Oscar De La Hoya, one of boxing’s all-time greats who won 10 world titles in six different weight classes, has been treated for depression.
Talking about it only makes it worse.
Try not to ignore the symptoms of depression if you see it in your spouse, children or co-workers. Showing support can be very valuable for the person going through depression. It is a relief when someone notices a change in your mood or behavior and has the compassion and courage to ask how you’re doing. Friends and family members can be very helpful to a person experiencing depression by listening and offering steady support and encouragement.
Medication will change your personality and you’ll be taking it forever.
Today’s anti-depressants are safe and effective. For most people, taking an anti-depressant makes them feel more like themselves. Antidepressants are not the same as painkillers or sedatives and they don’t typically make people feel “medicated”. Their job is to correct the brain chemistry that is causing your symptoms of depression. Your doctor will help you know if a particular medication is working for you and when you are feeling well enough to stop taking it. In most cases, engaging in therapy while using an anti-depressant will speed up your recovery.
The best way to help someone with depression is to cheer them up.
Well-meaning people will often tell a person with depression to look on the bright side. Or snap out of it. Or stop thinking about it. However, it’s much more complicated than that. The best way to help a person with depression is to make sure they have access to screening and treatment. A depression screening can be done during a primary care visit, during an intake appointment at a counseling center or in the privacy of your home with a confidential call to a crisis hotline.
Depression is a serious problem but it isn't given the attention that it truly deserves
So please follow these steps from Depression Alliance, a charity that provides support for people affected by depression, gives the following advice to friends, family and carers:
1) Let them know you care and are there to listen
2) Accept them as they are, without judging them.
3)Gently encourage them to help themselves - for example, by staying physically active, eating a balanced diet and doing things they enjoy.
4) Get information about the services available to them, such as psychological therapy servicesor depression support groups in their area.
5) Really important please stay in touch with them by messaging, texting, phoning or meeting for coffee. People who are depressed can become isolated and may find it difficult to leave their home.
6) Try to be patient.
7) Take care of yourself.
If the person you're worried about expresses suicidal feelings, you or they should contact a GP or NHS 111.
Contact Samaritans (Suicide Hotline UK) 116 123 for confidential, 24-hour support.
Contact Childline (UK): 0808 1111
NSPL (Suicide Hotline): 1-800-273-8255
Please help all those suffering from depression
Because no one should be alone...
Thank you for reading
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I love you all 💙💙💙💙💙💙💙
