Top 8 things people get wrong about Depression. Know from a Therapist

Depression is one of the leading issues for mental healthcare in India, but many people still don't understand it well. People with depression often face unfair treatment due to these harmful misconceptions. Thus it's important to learn the actual facts about depression to fight this stigma.
The following are some of the top things people get wrong about depression.

People Having Depression Can Just 'Snap out of It' if They Try Hard Enough:

The misconception that individuals with depression can simply overcome the disease through willpower or positive thinking overlooks the complex nature of the condition. Multiple factors can impact this disease, and merely telling someone to 'snap out of it' ignores the systemic and interpersonal factors that contribute to their condition.

Biological Factors of Depression:

Depression may involve changes in brain chemistry and function. Neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine play an impactful role in regulating mood. An imbalance in these neurotransmitter levels may lead to persistent sadness or difficulty experiencing pleasure. Willpower alone cannot correct these underlying biological abnormalities.

Psychological Factors of Depression:

Depression is often accompanied by distorted cognitive patterns, such as a negative sense of self and pessimism. These cognitive patterns can reinforce depressive symptoms and make it challenging for individuals to break free from this negative cycle.

Social Factors of Depression:

Social factors play a crucial role in managing depression, but individuals may face barriers in seeking help due to stigma, or isolation. There also may be certain lifestyle challenges, or systemic socio economic problems that are outside individual control which can contribute to depressive feelings.
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Depression And Sadness Are The Same Thing

One of the biggest misunderstandings about depression is that the condition is equivalent to feeling sad or being “blue.” Sadness is classified as an emotion and is therefore inherently fleeting and temporary. It is a feeling that usually lasts for a short period of time, and doesn’t generally greatly impact your everyday life.

Depression on the other hand is not an emotion, but a complex mental health disorder, characterized by a prolonged and persistent feeling of sadness along with a whole host of other mental and physical symptoms. People usually also experience a loss of pleasure in enjoyable activities or hobbies and generally see a negative impact on their interpersonal relationships.

In essence, depression is a long-term condition that can negatively affect a person’s thoughts, emotions, behaviours, body, and even interpersonal relationships; while sadness is simply one symptom of depression.

Depression Affects Just Your Mind

Another common myth about depression is that it is a condition that only affects the mind and emotions. However, we know that depression can have multiple symptoms. Some are cognitive and psychological while some are physical symptoms.

In fact, some of the first few warning signs of a depressive mindset are physical problems. Several people report a lack of energy, unexplained bodily aches and pains and disturbed sleep patterns. Additionally, depression can also make existing physical health conditions such as chronic pain, feel much more severe.

Antidepressants Are The ONLY Solution

Medication can be an important tool in treating depression, especially for individuals experiencing more severe cases of depression. Antidepressants function by altering brain chemistry in order to regulate mood. However, they're not the only solution. Therapy, lifestyle changes, and support systems are all integral tools used to combat depression.

Therapy, can address underlying psychological issues and teach effective coping strategies. Lifestyle changes like incorporating more exercise, a better diet, and having a healthy sleep cycle can also significantly impact mood. Most importantly, support from friends and family can provide comfort and encouragement, and create a safe space that is ideal for healing.

It's often a combination of approaches that bring about the best results in managing depression that can be achieved by visiting a psychiatrist near you.
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Depression Looks The Same for Everyone

Depression is far from a one-size-fits-all experience. Just because someone appears happy or seems to have it all together doesn't mean they aren't struggling with depression. The way depression manifests varies greatly from person to person, and its severity can differ as well.

That's why depression is often called the 'invisible illness'; it doesn't always show visible signs. Some individuals may primarily experience emotional symptoms such as sadness, and hopelessness, while others may primarily notice physical symptoms like changes in appetite, or difficulty sleeping. Cognitive symptoms such as difficulty concentrating or making decisions are also common. The combination and severity of symptoms can differ greatly among individuals.

Depression Only Occurs in Adults

Depression is not exclusive to adults; it can affect individuals of all ages, including teenagers and even children. People of all ages experience the world richly and have a keen cognitive ability which may negatively lead to depression. One reason for this misconception may be because depression shows up differently in younger age groups.
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There Must Be A Traumatic Event That Causes Depression

Experiencing a significant life event, such as losing a loved one, can lead to feelings of sadness, loneliness, and emptiness for everyone. Some people may recover in due time, but for some, this trauma may lead to depression.

However, depression isn't just about one thing. Instead, it's like a puzzle with many pieces. Sometimes, it can be triggered by a traumatic event, but other times, it's a combination of factors like genes, chemical imbalances, and how you see yourself and your life. Alternatively, trauma may not cause depression, but instead, expose an underlying issue which leads to depression. Other outside factors like stress, health problems, or changes in your life can also create an environment leading to depression.

In fact, depression may even develop without any obvious cause or big event! It is therefore important to find the right help and support that fits your unique situation from a psychiatrist near you.

Only “Weak” People Get Depressed

The idea that depression is a sign of weakness or a character flaw is the most harmful misconception about the condition. Our philosophy is plagued with this type of stigma which prevents people from seeking mental health care in India.

Depression is a complex medical condition that involves biological, psychological, and social factors. Just as someone with diabetes or cancer wouldn't be considered weak for seeking medical care, the same should be true for individuals struggling with depression.

Conclusion

Acknowledging depression as a medical condition helps to reduce stigma and encourages individuals to seek the support and treatment they need. It takes strength and courage to recognize when help is needed and to take steps toward recovery. As parents, caregivers, educators, and healthcare professionals, it's essential to recognise the signs and symptoms of depression and take them seriously. Early intervention and appropriate treatment, can make a significant difference in long-term outcomes.

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