| MYTH: Depression isn't really an illness. |
| |
FACT: The brain is an organ of the body that
can get sick just like the heart, liver or kidneys. Chemicals
in the brain, called neurotransmitters, regulate how people think,
feel and act. The brain can get sick if these chemicals are out of
balance or get disrupted, and the illness called clinical depression
can result. |
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| MYTH: All people who have depression appear
to be sad. |
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FACT: There are many different symptoms associated with
depression; sadness is only one of them. Some people have
chronic anger,worry, panic, or anxiety. Many hide their feelings of
despair and smile to mask their pain. |
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| MYTH: People with depression are weak and should
be able to snap themselves out of it. |
| |
FACT: Depression doesn't have anything to do with a person's
character or willpower. It is an illness that people can't
talk themselves out of, just like people can't talk themselves out
of having diabetes or heart disease. Treatment is the best way to
stop depression. |
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|
| MYTH: Something bad has to happen to people
in order for them to get depression. |
| |
FACT: Depression can happen at any time, even when a person's
life is going well. Stressful events can trigger or exacerbate
depression, but anyone can get depression regardless of age, race,
economic status, or environment. One in four Americans will have a
depressive illness at some time in their lives. |
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| MYTH: Most people with depression can't be helped. |
| |
FACT: Depression can be effectively treated in 90 percent
of cases with a combination of medication and therapy. Unfortunately,
only 1 in 3 people with depression will get help. |
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|
| MYTH: Depression is something to be ashamed
of and you shouldn't talk about it with others. |
| |
FACT: People aren't ashamed of having other illnesses, like
heart disease or diabetes; they shouldn't be embarrassed about having
depression either. If depression is discussed more openly,
more people will recognize symptoms, understand treatment options,
and realize it's a serious illness. Shame and stigma are the main
reasons people don't get the help they need. |
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| MYTH: Depression isn't really serious. |
| |
FACT: Depression is a serious illness that can be deadly.
Experts estimate that at least 70 percent of suicides are a result
of untreated depression. Untreated depression in adults can also lead
to unemployment, financial problems, divorce, or substance abuse.
In young people, it can cause problems at home, in school, and with
friendships. |
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| MYTH: Asking someone, "Have you ever felt
so badly that you've thought about suicide?" will plant the idea
in a person's head and possibly cause a suicide attempt. |
| |
FACT: Suicidal thoughts (in varying degrees) can be a symptom
of depression. Most people, when asked, will be truthful
about their feelings and will be relieved to know someone cares enough
to ask and assist them in getting help. Asking people about suicidal
thoughts or plans can help save lives. |
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| MYTH: Suicides usually happen without warning. |
| |
FACT: Studies show that about 80 percent of people who attempt
or complete suicide will either hint at it or directly tell a friend
or relative about plans for suicide. They may also make statements
about feeling hopeless, helpless or worthless. Warning signs may also
include: suddenly becoming happier or calmer, visiting or calling
loved ones to say goodbye, self-destructive behaviors, setting affairs
in order, or giving things away. |
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| MYTH: You should keep quiet about a suicide
plan, if someone asks you to keep it a secret. |
| |
FACT: Never keep a suicide plan a secret. When
young people are concerned about a friend or relative, they should
tell an adult. Adults who are concerned about a friend or family member
should build a support system and guide the person to a medical professional
for a depression evaluation and suicide assessment. |
