Dispelling Major Depression Myths

The more you know about major depression, the easier it is to seek treatment. Learn the facts about this common mental health condition.

By Beth W. Orenstein

Medically reviewed by Pat F. Bass III, MD, MPH

PrintE-mail

Depression is the most common psychiatric disorder in the United States, affecting some 23 million adults each year. Yet many myths and misconceptions about depression persist. Get the facts about five of the most common myths regarding major depression.

Myth Number 1: Depression is not a real disease or medical condition.

Fact: “Depression is real,” says Jeffrey Borenstein, MD, CEO and medical director of Holliswood Hospital in Queens, N.Y., and host of the PBS series Healthy Minds. “People need to recognize that depression is as much a medical condition as diabetes or heart disease.” The medical community does recognize depression as a distinct medical condition, so people with major depression should seek appropriatedepression treatment. Says Dr. Borenstein, “No one should suffer in silence.”

Myth Number 2: You can snap out of depression with positive thinking.

Fact: Depression is not a choice, Borenstein says — people with major depression don’t choose to have it, just as people don’t choose to have asthma or diabetes. Telling someone who is depressed to “keep a stiff upper lip” or to “snap out of it” is of no use; in fact, it’s insulting. People with major depression need help. The good news is that about 80 percent of people who get depression treatment start to show improvement within four to six weeks.

Myth Number 3: Depression will go away on its own.

Fact: In most cases, major depression will not go away without treatment. And if people don’t get help for depression, symptoms such as prolonged periods of hopelessness or sadness and lack of interest in things they usually enjoy can last for weeks, months, or possibly even years. Depression treatment usually includes a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and support groups.

Myth Number 4: Depression medication can cause your personality to change.

Fact: Antidepressants are designed to change the chemicals in the brain that causesymptoms of depression. They do not change a person’s personality. Sometimes medications need to be adjusted to be most effective, but they help most people with major depression to feel better and like themselves again. In addition, antidepressants are not addictive.

Myth Number 5: Talking about depression will only make things worse.

Fact: Because of its social stigma, many people are reluctant to talk about depression, Borenstein says. But talking to others is one of the best things you can do if you are depressed. Keeping your thoughts to yourself, especially if you are feeling suicidal, can be harmful. If you are depressed, talk to your doctor or a mental health professional. In many cases, the earlier you start treatment, the better your results.

Here are ways to open up about depression:

• Choose someone you feel close to. You may want to start by talking about the way you feel to a close friend, family member, clergy, or counselor. “Chances are they’ve noticed your depression, and it will be a relief to them that you’re bringing it up,” Borenstein says. You can start simply with “Can we talk?”
• Be honest. Don’t be afraid to say exactly what you are feeling. Your thoughts and concerns are real and serious. A supportive friend or family member will understand and won’t think you’re “crazy.”
• Keep a journal. Writing down your thoughts may help you express them better. Use your diary as a prompt to talk to your family, a close friend, doctor, or support group. Write down any questions that you may want to discuss during therapy so you don’t forget them.
• Learn more. The more you know about depression, the easier it will be for you to open up to others and know that you’re not alone. Be sure the information you get is from reliable sources such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness or the American Psychological Association.