5 Myths About Depression
The national conversation about depression is getting louder. This ongoing dialogue has provided those who suffer with support, compassion, and understanding.
However, there’s still plenty of room for growth.
Mental health continues to be misunderstood. And some of the most commonly held myths about depression include:
1. Depression Is Something People Just Get Over
Cheer up. Snap out of it. Think happy thoughts.
This sort of hollow advice is rooted in a lack of respect for the realities of depression. And these misconceptions can result in dangerous consequences.
“People don’t realize how quickly depression can lead to self-destructive behavior or suicidality,” said
Stephen Jarrell, Executive Director and CEO at Headwaters Counseling.
Whether for yourself or someone else, the major warning signs of depression to be aware of include:
- Increases in self-medication
- Progressive substance abuse
- Feelings of helplessness and hopelessness
2. Depression Is Only A Mental Obstacle
Symptoms of depression don’t necessarily stay between your ears. One of the most crippling aspects of depression is that it can impact someone mentally as well as physically. And this can make seeking appropriate treatment even more challenging.
Common
physical symptoms of depression include:
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Sleep problem
- Achy muscles
- Changes in appetite
3. Depression Is Another Word For Sadness
Although the two words are often used interchangeably, sadness and depression are not the same.
Sadness is a fleeting feeling with a trigger that’s often easy to identify. Unless caused by a major event such as the death of a loved one, sadness often fades in a matter of hours or days. It’s common for someone to go to bed sad and wake up content.
That’s highly unlikely for someone who is depressed. That’s because depression is a serious medical condition in which brain chemistry is impacted. It’s a mental health obstacle that can linger for months or years. Depression can also creep up on someone for no discernable reason.
4. Depression Is Only An Adult Issue
Depression does not discriminate. It can impact anyone and many young people carry this burden each day.
While many youths suffer from depression, only a portion receive the necessary help. According to Mental Health America,
59.8% of youth with major depression do not receive any mental health treatment.
And the results are disruptive. The same source cites that, because of depression,
more than 10% of youth in the United States are severely impaired in their ability to function at school, at work, with family, or in their social life.
5. Depression Can Only Be Addressed With Medication
Antidepressants are not your only option.
Counseling is another effective solution to address depression. By speaking with an experienced therapist, you can identify factors that contribute to depression, learn practical skills, feel supported, and regain control.
Tele-therapy is another way to receive counseling that alleviates obstacles like time and travel. Although the idea of counseling may seem intimidating, you can learn
what to expect before getting started.
To learn more about the benefits of counseling or to schedule an appointment,
contact Headwaters Counseling.
