Depression Is More Than Just Sadness! Here’s Are Four Common Misconceptions About Depression

Mental health and depression are more common than we would like to believe. However, in most parts of the world, it is still a taboo topic. The fact that people talk about it in hushes only adds to the woes of those battling mental health issues. Add to it, the numerous myths that are so popular that people choose to believe them over facts. It makes life difficult and pushes those battling depressions into corners.

If you wonder if this is an issue as serious as we claim it to be, here are a few numbers. According to research data from 2017, around  17.3 million U.S. adults battle depression. This means around 7.1% of all the adults in the country are battling depression. And they all have had at least one episode in the last year.

And of these people, only 65% received combined care from both a healthcare professional and medication. And 35% of the adults chose not to treat their mental health issues or depression. The pandemic wrecking havoc and an increase in the number of people reporting mental health issues, one can be sure that these stats have only risen to an all-new alarming level. The only way we could help those battling mental health issues and help reduce the episodes is by being supportive of their struggle. But, for that, you should understand what depression is by debunking the common misconceptions. Here’s a look at the four common misconceptions about depression and what it is like!

Myth 1: Traumatic Events Are the Only Cause of Depression

While it might seem like a valid assumption, depression is more than just a result of personal trauma. A traumatic event only intensifies the struggle of a person battling depression and takes longer for them to cope than any other individual.

Myth 2: Depression Is All in the Person’s Head

One of the most common and condescending statements that depressed people tend to hear is that it is all in their heads. This is not just far from true. It is also a hurtful statement that only further pushes them into their shell. So, if you are battling depression, remember that it is not just in your head, and you’re not doing it for attention. Your struggle is real, and it is perfectly fine to feel the way you are while battling depression. And it is alright to take the time to recover.

If you know someone who has a tough time battling depression, be supportive and give their struggle the same support you would if someone were to deal with a physical illness. Just the way you wouldn’t ask a physically sick person to stop being sick or go out and socialize to start feeling better doesn’t do that to a depressed person.

Myth 3: Depression Is Just Sadness!

Sorrow or sadness is something we all experience from time to time. Most of us remember crying ourselves to sleep at least once in this lifetime. However, depression is more than just that. While a person could be sad for a few hours or days, depression episodes are long-lasting.

In short, people with depression don’t start feeling alright on their own. They would need the assistance of a professional and their loved ones to start coping with their struggles. Besides that, depression is not just sadness.

It involves a person battling more severe emotions than just sadness. A depressed person has to deal with other intense struggles like anxiety, a sense of void, nervousness, self-doubt, and numerous other negative emotions. When we characterize depression as just another form of sadness, we minimize the struggles of those battling depression and do more harm than good to our loved ones who need our help.

Myth 4: Medication Is  the Only Way to Treat Depression

According to a recent study, only 6% of the adults battling depression and sought professional help were on medication to treat their condition. While mental health and depression are real struggles, popping pills isn’t the only solution to treating it. Research evidence suggests that Cognitive Behavioral Therapy or CBT is effective in treating depression too. So, don’t just pop in those pills or advise people to go on medication to aid them in their battle. Remember, every person’s depression is different, and so is the approach to treating it.

Remember that depression is not a sign of weakness or an attempt at seeking attention. It is perfectly fine to seek help if you’re having a tough time dealing with your emotions and life. If you believe that someone you know might be struggling with depression, make it a point to reach out to them, rather than waiting for them to come to you. Most people battling depression might not ask for help!