There are many myths that surround the topic of depression. It is a difficult subject to broach but an important one due to many reasons. From its early signs to misleading myths, depression has become one of the important mental health concerns in the modern world. It is an affliction difficult to diagnose and beat. It is different from momentary moments of sadness and gloom that we face from time to time. It is not just a mental health disorder but the root cause of other illnesses.
Depression can gravely affect the quality of lives of the healthiest individuals. Lack of motivation, indifference, low productivity, and hopelessness are some of the telltale signs of depression. But what about the symptoms that fool the naked eye. To get some clarity on the subject, we asked an expert, Dr. Ishan Shivanand, about the most common myths about depression.
Dr. Ishan Shivanand is an acclaimed mental health researcher, a professor with expertise in non-pharmaceutical meditative modalities, and the Founder of Yoga of Immortals (YOI). He holds a Ph.D. in Humanities honorary degree, a Doctorate in Alternative Medicines, the Indian Board of Alternative Medicines, and Masters in Naturopathy and Yogic Science, All India Natural Life Association Institute of Naturopathy & Yogic Sciences.
5 Most common myths about depression debunked by an expert
1. Myth: Depression is equal to just feeling sad
Perhaps one of the most common misconceptions about depressionis that it just equals feeling sad. While feeling despondent is a part of the mental health disorder, depression cannot be just summed in a few words like ‘feeling sad’.
It is also not true that depression is always caused by a sad or tragic incident. While a tragedy can raise the risk of developing depression, it is not always the cause. At times, depression can be a culmination of certain incidents or traumatic occurrences over the years. The cause of depression cannot be pinpointed accurately. Dr. Shivanand says that depression causes unexplained periods of hopelessness, lethargy in difference and sadness. Depression can also cause suicidal thoughts.
Dr. Ishan Shivanand explains, “A prevalent misunderstanding is that depression is simply sadness. However, it is much more complex. Depression is a persistent mental health disorder that can affect one’s emotional, physical, and cognitive well-being. Unlike sadness, which is temporary and often linked to specific events, depression can last for weeks, months, or longer, and it doesn’t go away by just ‘cheering up’.”
2. Myth: It is easy to spot someone with depression
When we talk about depression, we picture someone sitting in the corner with their head hung in sadness. In reality, that’s not the case. The symptoms of depression can vary from individual to individual. Even the person who has the biggest smile on can be struggling inside. So when it comes to depression, it is not wise to judge someone on the face value.
“There’s a belief that someone with depressionwill always appear down or withdrawn. In reality, many people mask their struggles. Someone battling depression can seem cheerful and productive while hiding their inner turmoil,” Dr Shivandand elaborates.
He adds, “This invisibility makes it crucial to create an environment where open conversations about mental health are encouraged, as you never know who might need support.”
3. Myth: Opening up about depression can only make it worse
After acceptance, the most important step of treating depression is being able to talk about it. Dr. Shivanand says that it’s a myth that talking about depression can lead to more triggering episodes. On the contrary, we must create a safe environment in which everyone feels safe enough to discuss serious mental concerns like depression.
Dr. Shivananad believes that few of the common symptoms of depressioninclude social withdrawal and tendency to climb to isolation. Talking about depression with someone can help counter feelings of loneliness.
He opines, ”A damaging myth is that discussing depression might trigger or exacerbate it. On the contrary, talking about it can be one of the most powerful tools for healing. Sharing thoughts and feelings with trusted individuals or professionals helps reduce the sense of isolation and creates a path toward finding appropriate support and resources.”
4. Myth: People who are depressed are mentally weak
One of the most dangerous and damaging myths about depression is that it only happens to individuals who are mentally weak. This mentality perpetuates the stigma around depression and holds people back to seek the help they need. Depression is an unfortunate mental health concernthat can affect anyone anytime.
“Depression is often wrongly associated with personal failure or lack of willpower. The truth is that depression can affect anyone, regardless of their strength, success, or personality. Recognizing and addressing depression is a sign of courage, not weakness. Understanding that it is a medical condition allows for compassion and more effective support,” Dr. Shivananad highlights.
5. Myth: A positive outlook can help cure depression
Depending on its gravity, clinical depression can be properly treated with medical invention. It is not something that people can control or heal on their own. So the myth that depression can be curbed with a positive and happy outlook does not hold valid.
“While positive thinking is helpful, the notion that depression can be cured just by ‘thinking happy thoughts’ is a myth. Managing depression usually requires a holistic approach that includes self-care practices, lifestyle changes, professional guidance, and sometimes medication. It is a journey that requires time, effort, and a supportive approach, rather than simply ‘looking on the bright side’,” Dr. Shivanand says.
He adds, “By debunking these myths, a more compassionate and accurate understanding of depression can be cultivated. With greater awareness, we can create supportive spaces that empower individuals to seek help and improve their mental well-being, ultimately enabling healthier communities.
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