Depression is a widespread problem in the U.S. alone. Major depression is now experienced by over 8 million adults a year. As a result, depression has become the most prominent source of disability in the country. However, despite the debilitating effects of depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders, they are all highly treatable in most circumstances.

Although millions of Americans suffer from depression each year, a significant number of them never receive the proper treatment. This is largely due to false notions of depression that confuse the issue. When myths about depression circulate, the public is done a great disservice. Erroneous impressions of the disorder can prevent depression sufferers from ever recognizing the reality of their situation. In addition, these myths only further solidify the stigma associated with depression that discourages many individuals from seeking treatment.

Information on Depression Myths

One of the most harmful falsehoods about depression is that it is not a "serious" illness. In addition to daily hardships for the depressed individual, their family, friends, and associates, depression can also lead to alcohol and drug abuse, reckless behavior to self and others, violence, abuse, and suicide. This is compounded by the physically debilitating aspects of some symptoms of depression and anxiety. This myth is based on the mistaken opinion that depression is synonymous with basic sadness or grief. Sadness and grief are appropriate responses to loss, hurt, or displeasure. Depression is the prolonged feeling of sadness and grief, without any reasonable outside stimuli.

Another reason that depression may not be taken as seriously as it should be is the myth that depression is completely mental, and therefore "all in your mind." While depression is a mood disorder, it's detrimental beyond the control of basic cognitive functions. Individuals must undergo therapy in order to accustom their mind to alleviating the effects of depression and anxiety. In addition, the idea that depression is a purely emotional condition is negated by evidence that chemical imbalances in the brain play a significant part in the disorder.