We commonly hear some statements about depression that are just plainly untrue. At times, we can internalize some of these myths about depression and feel intensified emotions of guilt and shame. Sometimes we hear myths about depression presented as facts by the people we love most. This can be a very hurtful experience. This post seeks to provide clarity to those individuals who may not understand depression, and validation for those who do. Let’s work through some of the most common myths about depression together.
“You look fine”
A statement which is commonly heard by those who experience depression. This myth suggests that real illness is only something that can be seen by others. When in reality, we know that mental illness is invisible and we may not look outwardly different. Although we may have no changes to our physical appearance, the experience of depression remains with us and can go unseen by our family and friends.
“How can you be depressed? You have a house, family, car…”
The list goes on. This myth suggest that the things we have can protect us from experiencing depression, and that with these things we should have nothing to be sad about. However, what we know is that depression can be experienced by any age, social economic status, gender, and lifestyle.
“There are other people in worse situations than you”
This statement leads us to feeling invalidated, like our experience of depression is “severe enough”. Thoughts like this can lead us to feeling hesitant to speak out about our experience because “other people have been through worse,” as the myth suggests. However, what we know about depression is that everyone experiences their struggles differently. We know that the way we perceive stressors and difficult experiences is subjective and different for each person.
“A pill will fix it“
This myth suggests that medications are the only component to the treatment of depression. What we know is that there are many components to the successful treatment of depression. Medication can be an important part of that treatment. Evidence suggests that the most effective treatment of depression is medication and psychotherapy in combination. Placing all hope in medication may lead to less effective treatment experience, depending on the individual.
“People with depression are lazy”
We know that one of the primary symptoms of depression is loss of motivation & drive. This symptom can impact our ability to care for ourselves at times. Sometimes it can prevent us from competing basic hygiene tasks like showering and prevent us from getting out of bed even when we really want to. For those who may not understand that this is one of the symptoms of depression, they may label this behaviour as “lazy” without having the knowledge that this is one of the core symptoms of depression.
These myths about depression can lead us to place stigma on ourselves, and provide false information that contributes to stigma from others. Perhaps you find your mind full of these myths about depression and negative self statements. This could be preventing you from getting the help you need and deserve. If you believe you could benefit from support with your depression, contact a psychotherapist.