There are many misconceptions associated with depression. This may be why people get confused about what that should believe when it comes to symptoms and signs of depression. Misconceptions are not only unhelpful but they may also prevent people from seeking the professional assistance required to overcome depression. Being educated on the facts and circulating accurate information is an important way of dispelling misconceptions. Let’s take a look at some of the common misconceptions associated with depression.
1. Depression means you’re feeling sad or upset.
The truth of the matter is that people who do have depression experience a wide range of feelings. They may feel sad, hopeless, worthless or even numb. These problems are not just fleeting but are more likely to be long lasting. They may also experience low energy levels, difficulty sleeping, they may not want to get out of bed in the morning and also have a change in appetite. There are many symptoms that are associated with depression.
2. Antidepressants are an easy fix for depression.
Unfortunately, antidepressants only help some people with depression. Sometimes it takes quite a long time to work through the myriad of antidepressants available. While some do find antidepressants that work for them, there are just as many who find the side effects intolerable and there are others who have found that antidepressants make no difference at all. If you have tried antidepressants and they have not worked, you want to try transcranial magnetic stimulation. For more information about TMS therapy please click here.
3. Talking about your feelings with a friend will make your depression better.
If only it were so simple. Talking about the situation is certainly important and will start the recovery journey, however, it won’t cure depression. The best way to deal with depression is to seek professional help. Talking about your feelings will be important along the way, whether it be to a trusted friend or clinician. To read more about how you can help a friend with depression click here.
4. People are depressed for a reason.
Death in the family, ending a relationship, losing a job can all contribute to feelings of sadness, grief and a depressed state. But it doesn’t necessarily mean you are clinically depressed. Having feelings like these are expected after going through life changing events but it doesn’t mean the person is actually going through depression. The difficulty often comes in acknowledging that in many cases there are no obvious factors as to why people experience depression. It’s something that mental health professionals still don’t have an answer for, so predicting who and when someone will experience depression is almost impossible to determine.
This blog outlines just a few misconceptions associated with depression and because there is no obvious cause it’s difficult to determine who or when it might be experienced. They key is to observe your friends and family and note any key changes in that may present in the person’s usual behaviour patterns. If you do suspect that a person might be experiencing depression symptoms be the listening ear and support them into seeking professional help. If matters are urgent please contact your emergency department or local mental health team. The number for Lifeline is 13 11 14.
