Depression is a disease just like cancer, diabetes, or heart disease, and yet while we do technically blame some patients for their own problems, we seem to be harder on those with depression, even believing that the disease is just a figment of their imagination or a way to get attention, especially after living with someone who is depressed for years. That person may have acted out in the past, and instead of thinking that may be a symptom of a problem that’s not being treated, we assume that they are just attention seekers. Realistically, most don’t want the attention and most don’t want to be that way, even avoiding treatment to avoid the stigma. Most know that family members and friends may view something like suicide as being weak, and there are quite a few misconceptions.
Depression Isn’t Real & Sufferers Are Just Weak
Depression is a disease of the brain, and while it can sometimes be treated with therapy, experts believe that chemicals are actually out of balance, which obviously is not something that you can talk through. Most of the time, it doesn’t make sense. Yes, some people have certain problems due to traumatic events, but some report being able to handle traumatic events only to feel more depressed when everything has calmed down and the pressure is off. It could be caused by genes, events, or illness, but it is very real.
You Don’t Need or Want Pills
Treatment is hit and miss, and nothing works for everybody. Everybody’s chemicals are different, and the average patient goes through several different options before finding one that actually works for them. Pills can cause a decrease in libido, nausea, and a number of other symptoms, some of which seem worse than the depression itself. However, treatment is important as ignoring it can only make it worse. Depressed people typically go through cycles, but it does not “get better” by itself.
Children Cannot Get Depression
Depression can develop at any age, any time, and in any race, economic group, or gender. It is more common among women and it seems to manifest for some mostly in teenage and adult years. But as many as 3 in 100 young children and 9 in 100 teens have been recorded as having problems with depression. Many cases remain unreported because the child experiences shame, confusion, or parents don’t know what to look for or believe many of the myths. There are quite a few reasons that children suffer from depression and go undiagnosed. However, it does occur in children.
