Myths (And Facts) About Depression That You Should Know

Best Depression Treatment in Kolkata

Depression is one of the most common mental illnesses. Despite its very high prevalence, there are still many misconceptions about it. And this is one of the critical factors why the condition goes undiagnosed in the majority of the cases and many fail to seek the treatments they need (and deserve).

Here are some of the common myths about depression

What Is Depression?

Myth: Depression is the same as feeling sadness or grief.

Fact: Depression is a serious mental condition that can cause disability.

Whether it’s the death of a loved one or a loss of a job, most people have been sad or experienced grief in their lives. Those feelings tend to fade.

Depression is different. People diagnosed with depression experience symptoms that can last for weeks, months, or even years.

Depression can affect your mood, making you feel sad, guilty, worthless, tired, irritable, or angry. It can make it more difficult to perform daily tasks like eating, sleeping, or working.

If you are experiencing symptoms of depression, you should seek treatment.

What Are the Effects of Depression?

Myth: Depression affects everyone in the same way.

Fact: There are several types of depression, and people experience it differently.

Depression is not a one-size-fits-all condition. It can cause different symptoms in people depending on factors like age, gender, or life situation.

For many people, depression is a constant problem. For others, depression can develop during life circumstances, such as postpartum depression.

Different types of depression include:

  • Major depressive disorder, with or without psychotic features
  • Persistent depressive disorder
  • Postpartum depression
  • Seasonal affective disorder
  • Premenstrual dysphoric disorder

What Causes Depression?

Myth: Depression only happens when something bad happens to you.

Fact: Depression can develop in many different ways.

Life events like unemployment, a loved one’s death, or psychological trauma can cause depression. But those aren’t the only causes.

Biological, environmental, genetic, and psychological factors all can cause depression, according to the National Institute of Mental Health.

If you have a family history of depression, you may develop depression yourself. You may experience depression if you have a serious illness like cancer or heart disease. Depression also can be a side effect of some medications or result from drug or alcohol abuse.

Anxiety and Depression

Myth: Anxiety and depression are the same things.

Fact: Anxiety and depression can be related, but they’re two different conditions.

Both anxiety disorders and depression can cause similar symptoms, such as irritability. Both can cause problems with sleep, eating, or other activities. But they’re two separate conditions with their own causes and related symptoms.

Many people with diagnosed depression also have a history of anxiety, according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America. But it’s also very possible to experience one without the other.

How Is Depression Treated?

Myth: Depression can go away on its own.

Fact: Treatment is important to help with depression and to avoid complications.

Ignoring your symptoms of depression won’t help with the disease. In fact, it can make your condition worse.

If left untreated, depression can lead to serious health complications, including sleeping and eating disorders and substance abuse. It also can lead to suicidal thoughts or actions.

Other mental health conditions, like bipolar disorder and substance abuse, also can be related to depression. Physical illnesses like cancer, heart disease, and chronic pain also can be risk factors.

Who Does Depression Affect?

Myth: Depression is an adult disease.

Fact: People of any age can suffer from depression.

Although depression often comes during adulthood, millions of children and adolescents suffer from it, too. Identify the Signs, Get the Help. Separate the myths from realities. Use qualified resources to understand depression and other mental health disorders better.

If you believe you or someone you love has mental health problems, seek treatment. It’s possible to beat the feelings and mental health challenges you’re dealing with. You just have to reach out to the right people.

If you live in Kolkata, connect with a specialist who offers the best depression treatment in Kolkata. Google “depression treatment near me“, look for experts, consider their experience, and reach out to them. This applies irrespective of where you live.

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