Mental health tops the list of health conditions that are widely misunderstood. You may have seen someone struggling with a mentaldisorder – whether it is a loved one, stranger, public figure, or someone else, and among these illnesses is depression.
These days it is becoming a commonillness, due to a variety of factors. However, that does not make it easy for the people who have it – they often have to go through a lot of prejudice and stigma, and many of them suffer in silence. The best way to know how to assist them is by knowing the facts behind the illness, so here are some myths associated with this disease and why they should be ignored.
Depression Is Not An Actual Illness
This is among the most common misconceptions about the illness, as many people still think it is a manifestation of character weakness or just general sadness. Yes, it may be due to these factors, but the truth is that depression runs deeper than that. It occurs due to biological, psychological and social factors, and it can be managed through various methods.
If there is someone in your life experiencing depression or you feel you are going through it, you need to seek medical help. It is not something you can overcome on your own, because it affects your mind and body. Your doctor will assist you to get the necessary support that you require in managing the condition.
As Long As You Take Antidepressants, You Can Be Cured Of Depression
This misconception stems from the lack of knowledge about how depression affects the brain. The doctors usually prescribe antidepressants to treat this condition.
Depression changes the chemistry of the brain, due to the change in levels of certain hormones and neurotransmitters – so the job of antidepressants is to deal with deep rooted issues that might be the reason of the condition.
However, you must also remember that antidepressants alone are not theonly solution for depression. The doctor can also recommend that a patient goes to talk therapy or psychotherapy, which is a common strategy of treatment.
You Can ‘Snap Out Of It’ When It Overwhelms You
Again, this misconception is due to the lack of knowledge about how depression affects the brain. Many people think that depression is because you have allowed yourself to wallow in sadness or grief, and they mistakenly believe it can be solved when you have a positive attitude or think positive thoughts.
However, depression does not just occur due to sad thoughts, or laziness or weaknesses in character. It can affectanybody at any time, as it is a medical condition that affects the chemistry of the brain – just like what drug addiction does (for more information, you can contactvariousrehab services, such as this drug abuse hotline). In addition, there are various biological and environmental factors that can contribute to depression, so it requires a multi-faceted medical solution – best to talk with your doctor about it.
Sad Situations Increase the Chances of Getting Depression
The truth is everyone experiences sad situations and thoughts. That is a part of life after all, and you cannot avoid it. For instance, you experience sadness when you have lost your job or a loved one, or a relationship you treasured has ended.
These events can raise the chances of you suffering from depression, but they are not the only reasons. You have probably seen someone who seems very happy and lives a comfortable life, yet they are suffering from the illness – it actually happens.
The condition leads to periods of intense lethargy, sadness and hopelessness, for most of which you cannot pinpoint the exact reason. There are also tendencies and thoughts of committing suicide, and the episodes can last for prolonged periods. It can also arise inexplicably and suddenly, even if your life is going well.
Family History Of Depression Guarantees You Will Have It
Itcannnnot be denied that genetics plays a role in your chances of getting depression, but it is not a guarantee. Interestingly even experts are not certain on the effect of genetics on the disease, so just because someone in your family has it, does not mean you must suffer from it as well.
Being aware of your family history is a good step, but do not allow it to consume all your thoughts as to whether you will get it or not. After all, you cannot control it when and if it happens.So the best thing is to keep your focus on the factors you can control. For instance, avoiding drugs and alcohol consumption can reduce the overall risk of getting depression.
Antidepressants Alter Your Personality
What antidepressants actually accomplish is changing the chemistry of the brain, and make it easier for you to manage the illness. Even though that statement seems intimidating, they actually do a good job in helping you out – since it is very difficult to work it out on your own.
In addition, they do not changethe entire brain chemistry – only certain neurochemicals. This provides relief from certain symptoms of depression without changing your personality. In fact, many people who are suffering from the illness find themselves again in that state once they get off treatment programs such as these. There are also other possibilities you can explore, so if you do not like the idea of taking medications, your doctor can suggest other effective methods for you.
You Will Have To Be On Medication Forever
Even though antidepressants are a good long term option for treating and managing the disorder, that does not mean you are enslavedto them forever. The length of time you will take them will depend on how severe your condition is and the treatment plan you are following.
There are other treatments as well, which can be used as a supplement to medication.
Final Thoughts
Depression is a severe illness that needs to be taken seriously – it has cost the lives of many. If you are suspecting you have it, it is important to seek medical help and get treatment options that can help you manage the condition.
