Any connotation of mental health is frequently perceived with stigmas that are usually based on ignorance. Whenever someone needs a “regular” medication (e.g. antibiotics, cholesterol medication, high blood pressure, etc.) there are no associated qualms or hesitation about it because they are medically required and it’s simply OK.
However, any medication or treatment involving mental health can easily become a source of shame, apprehension, and misinterpretation.
In line with this, depression has strong stigmas attached to it that make it even more challenging for those affected to sometimes seek the right treatment and help.
“You can snap out of Depression”
Just as with any other illness, you can eventually get rid of the symptoms after proper treatment. If you have high blood pressure, having a healthy lifestyle (eating right, exercising, avoiding stress, not smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, etc.) can help control it. Also, sometimes, in addition to a healthy lifestyle, medication might be needed. However, you cannot just snap out of it, or make a sudden decision to change it.
“Depression defines you”
First of all, it is not easy to spot depression in anyone (except in very extreme cases) as people who are depressed might laugh, enjoy some good moments, and remain fairly engaged with life and activities. Depression is felt by the affected person but cannot be felt by those around the affected person. Also, if you suffer from depression, you are not “Depressed”. You are who you are, and if you suffer from depression this should define you. Unfortunately, stereotypes play into many people who are not familiar with or knowledgeable about depression.
“Depression will limit your life”
Suffering from depression is, unfortunately, more common than most think and it also weighs emotionally and mentally in a significant way. However, being affected by depression doesn’t mean that you are condemned to it for life. Depression treatment is effective and when followed properly can eradicate depressive symptoms and allow one to live a full life. The important step is to recognize and face it, and to then seek proper treatment (whether psychotherapy or a combination of psychotherapy and medication, together with a healthy lifestyle).
We do not control being affected by any condition, but we can control what we do about it. Especially, when there are effective treatments available.
For more information on Depression Therapy click here.
