A huge part of understanding a mental illness starts with learning why it's so misunderstood. Myths on mental illnesses are not as rare as the abominable snowman sightings. They're around every corner if you're neurodivergent, what with almost 2 million of ’em in just India.
And, that's only counting people who are aware, and are willing to get past the shame society puts on them to admit being neurodivergent.
Think of us as your friendly neighbourhood guide to debunking depression myths. As seasoned experts, we know where our first stop will be!
For one, these myths aren't just harmless misunderstandings; they're a huge hindrance to getting help as they foster shame, and perpetuate suffering. So it's definitely in the best interest of our collective to know and fight against them.
Within the well-oiled cog of society, myths breed stigma. When depression is seen as a weakness or a choice, society as a whole becomes less empathetic to people who suffer from it.
This leads to the absence of several fundamental rights one has as a human, like discrimination in workplaces, schools, and even within families. Most dangerously of all, it discourages people from seeking help, fearing judgment.
To the part of the community that experiences depression, myths can be devastating. They might internalise these false beliefs, leading to self-blame and isolation. This can delay or prevent them from seeking timely treatment.
Children and young adults who grow up surrounded by these myths, are more likely to develop distorted views about mental health.
This perpetuates a cycle of misunderstanding, preventing even the future generations from accessing the support they need.
So that begs the million dollar question:
There are many reasons for society to deem something wrong and shun it. It's happened before and it'll happen with every new thing. The main culprits are:
Many people lack basic mental health literacy. Schools often prioritise physical health over mental well-being, leaving gaps in understanding.
Mental illness carries a heavy stigma, leading to shame and secrecy. People are often afraid to talk about their struggles, which perpetuates misunderstanding.
Media often sensationalises or misrepresents mental illness, creating inaccurate and harmful stereotypes.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), while mental health disorders are prevalent, funding for research is often lower than for other health conditions.
While progress has been made, mental health research still lags mainly behind physical health research. Funding disparities mean fewer resources for understanding and treating mental disorders.
Cultural beliefs and societal norms significantly affect how we perceive mental health. In some cultures, discussing mental health is taboo, while in others, it's more accepted.
Now that you've got the foundation, let's get into the real deal!
1. Depression Isn't Real, It's Just Being Sad
Sadness, of course, is a normal emotion, but depression is a clinical condition. It's a persistent feeling of hopelessness, loss of interest, and presents with physical symptoms like fatigue and sleep disturbances.
2. Only Women Get Depression
While women are diagnosed with depression more frequently, men experience it too. Don't just take out the word it! According to the WHO, depression affects people of all genders, ages, and backgrounds. Men often mask their symptoms with anger, irritability, or substance abuse.
3. Depression Is Just a Phase, You'll Snap Out of It
Telling someone with depression to "snap out of it" is like telling someone with a broken leg to just walk it off. It's a mood disorder and a persistent condition that requires treatment. Untreated depression can last for months or even years.
4. Antidepressants Are Harmful and Make You a Zombie
Antidepressants are a valuable tool in managing depression, but they're not the red pills (the Matrix kind not the Tate one) people seem to believe them to be. You don't just wake up and suddenly decide you don't have depression anymore.
They work differently for everyone, and side effects are possible but not universal. Modern antidepressants are generally safe and effective, and doctors carefully monitor their use.
5. Depression Equals Weakness
Depression is anything but a character flaw. It's a complex illness that can affect anyone, regardless of their strength or resilience. You could be the happiest child who eventually grew up to lose interest in anything or not find joy in everyday life. In fact, seeking help for depression is a sign of strength, not weakness.
6. If you are rich or successful, you cannot be depressed
Depression does not discriminate. It can affect anyone regardless of their status, wealth, or success. Of course, external factors like having the means to buy your favourite bike may contribute to your overall happiness, but it does not prevent chemical imbalances in the brain.
7. Depression is only caused by traumatic events
This is a tricky one, because trauma can lead to a funhouse wheel of mental health disorders, including depression. While trauma can trigger it, depression can also arise from genetic predispositions, chemical imbalances, and other factors.
It disregards the more nuanced ways depression can affect people and that misinformation can be dangerous to recovery.
8. Talking about depression makes it worse
The opposite is true! Talking about depression can be incredibly therapeutic. It helps to break down isolation and shame, and it allows people to access support.
It helps so much that they've got treatment plans with multiple variations of it, like Talk therapy and group therapy. The best way to fight a disorder that convinces you you're alone is by proving you that you're not.
9. You can cure depression with positive thinking alone
It's the other end of the “snap out of it” spectrum. While positive thinking can be helpful, it's not a substitute for professional treatment. Just because your friend writes on your cast doesn't mean that arm is gonna feel brand new in a matter of seconds.
Depression is a complex condition that often requires therapy, medication, or a combination of both. Positive thinking is a tool, not a cure.
10. Depression is a life sentence
With the right treatment and support, people with depression can and do lead fulfilling lives. Recovery is possible, and there is hope. If you disagree, just remember that depression is a Debbie Downer and its voices must be rebutted with sick comebacks like “your mom” or “I am not doomed, you are”
Debunking these common depression myths is just the beginning. The real work lies after this; in fostering empathy, promoting open conversations, and ensuring that everyone has access to the support they need.
Without fighting these off first, there is no real progress and Kofuku is always here to lend a guiding hand to stand with you. Remember, you're not alone, and help is always available.
Does talking about depression make it worse?
Talking about depression does not make it worse. If anything, talking about mental health issues can be quite cathartic. Speaking up about your depression might actually help your depression.
I feel sad occasionally. Am I depressed?
Is there a pattern to your sadness? If there is, you might be depressed.
Can positive thinking alone cure my depression?
Positive thinking alone cannot cure your depression. You need to speak to a therapist so that you can get your depression cured.
Is depression caused by trauma?
Depression can sometimes be caused due to traumatic events, like someone passing away, or a breakup or something like that.
Does depression equal weakness?
Having depression does not make you weak. Having any mental health issue doesn’t make you weak. On the contrary, it makes you a strong human being.
