Depression is one of the most common mental disorders. But do you know what a depression is exactly? These are the most common misconceptions about depression.

Misconception #1: Depressie is similar to feeling down

Feeling a down isn’t very unusual and it’s true everybody experiences this sometimes. In fact, more than 1 in 5 people will experience an episode in which the complaints will be so intense they could be diagnosed with a depression. There is however a difference between feeling down  and experiencing a period of feeling down combined with feelings of worthlessness, constant exhaustion, bad concentration or even thoughts about death. Sadness doesn’t necessarily has to be the most present feeling. A depression can also be expressed through anger, frustration and aggressiveness. The impact of the complaints on someone’s well being, but also on the surroundings are much bigger for a depression then when someone is feeling down.

Misconception #2: A depression will heal  itself

A depression can pass on its own sometimes, but mostly complaints can maintain a long time and strengthen other complaints. You might imagine that someone that’s always tired and can’t concentrate very well, will have less pleasure in doing things that cost a lot of energy. This can lead to feelings of worthlessness and maybe even develop into thoughts about death. To keep on going with your daily activities like work and school in the same pace can then be extra stressful. Depression often does not disappear by itself.

Misconception #3: A depression only develops after a traumatic event

A depression can develop after a negative life event like the passing away of a family member, but that’s not always the case. Interpersonal Psychotherapy is a treatment that focuses on four different sorts of depression: mourning, conflict, change of social role or shortage of social relationships. A loss, conflict, change or shortage in the social environment can have a big impact on your mood. A depression can also develop slowly after a longer amount of time. For example when someone with a low self esteem is constantly looking for negative confirmations which can increase the sense of failing. The feeling you never seem to be doing anything right, can cause a lot of negative feelings and even lead to a full grown depression.

Misconception #4: Antidepressants will cure every depression

An antidepressant is a medicine that helps with intense emotions and stress, but it’s not a cure for depression. Quite often it’s prescribed in combination with psychotherapy. A depression is not just feelings of sadness. Negative thought patterns and a unhealthy lifestyle can contribute as well. The combination of antidepressants, psychotherapy and improving the lifestyle is an effective way to overcome a depression.

NiceDay

Have you been feeling down for a long time, do you recognize yourself in the things above and do you find it difficult to deal with your mental complaints? Know that you can always seek help of a professional. You can report this to your doctor, but you can also contact a professional within NiceDay.