Do you know that the internet is filled with many myths about depression? And if you don’t know or are not careful, you will accept these myths and have a wrong view of depression, making it difficult for you to seek help.
One of the most familiar myths is that depression only affects a few specific people and not even an actual medical situation. Yet, in 2020, depression was considered the most familiar mental health problem in the United States since about 8.4% of adults experience one form of depression or the other.
However, people still believe in many myths. And this is majorly due to social and cultural misconceptions and ancient sciences.
This article addresses a few of the most prevalent myths about depression, shows why they are false, and distinguishes tales from reality.
1. Trauma leads to depression
People still believe depression follows a traumatic event. While trauma can be a risk factor for depression, it is not the leading cause. There’s no single reason for depression.
Depression occurs due to several factors. And in some cases, people will be depressed even when every aspect of their life seems to be going well.
2. Depression is not an actual condition
Some believe depression is a form of sadness, not a diagnostic medical condition. They thought it had to do with the choices you make or a product of personality traits. These entire attempts are to discredit depression as a mental health condition.
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5), however, describes depression as a medical condition. Therefore, both physical and emotional symptoms are present. And once an individual is qualified to be diagnosed with depression, as stated in the manual, they’ll be considered depressed.
3. Family history makes depression inevitable
Another common myth is depression is inherited from the family. And that if your family has a history of depression, you cannot escape from depression too.
Like any other disease or mental health condition, genetics play a role. Because studies revealed that those with a first-degree family member with depression have about 2 to 3 more chances of experiencing depression.
But some people are the first to develop depression in their families, and there are people with a family history of depression but never develop depression. So biological, psychological, and environmental factors play vital roles.
4. keeping yourself busy to heal depression
Some believe hobbies, school work, and other activities that will keep you busy can heal or prevent episodes of depression.
While spending quality time with families and friends and engaging in healthy exercise can help cope with depression, just engaging in activities or work cannot guarantee healing from depression. However, focusing on quality activities, projects, or hobbies as a therapy for depression is effective. Your trained personnel may even recommend cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).
Also, you can spend more time
