7 Truths About Depression You Need To Know

1. Those who struggle with depression are not 'crazy'

Considering the number of people who take some type of psychotropic medication, whether for depression, anxiety, ADHD or any other mental health condition, suggesting that every one of them is "crazy" is beyond ignorant.

Using the word "crazy" to describe someone who struggles with a mental health condition is not only ignorant but potentially very harmful.

2. Antidepressants are not addictive

Unlike some anti-anxiety medications or sleeping aids, antidepressants are not habit-forming. The withdrawal effects that can occur when someone suddenly stops taking the medication are the body's physiological response similar to diabetic suddenly discontinuing insulin. This is why doctors recommend tapering off slowly rather than stopping altogether.

3. Antidepressants do not 'turn you into a zombie'

Like most medications, antidepressants come with the possibility of side effects. It may take a few trials to find the one that works with a person's unique body chemistry. With advances in technology, we have come a long way in developing new, effective medications, many with minimal side effects. Depending on the severity of symptoms, especially in the case of suicide, medication can be a lifesaver.

4. Depression is not a 'first world problem'

The number of people to recognize and report symptoms or to be properly diagnosed by a mental health professional may vary among cultures, but who is actually at risk for developing a depressive disorder is not determined by nationality.

According to the World Health Organization, 350 million people worldwide suffer from depression. That's 5 percent of the world's population, and 20-40 percent of women in developing countries experience postpartum depression, almost twice the percentage in industrialized countries.

Depression doesn't discriminate. The idea that external circumstances are the sole contributor to the prevalence of a brain disease such as depression, discounts the genetic, biological and many other factors involved.

5. Depression is NOT a choice

Telling "nothing to be depressed about", implies that there is a choice involved, perpetuating the excessive feelings of guilt that often haunt those with depression. Remember, nobody chooses to be depressed.

6. Depression is NOT weakness

Depression has absolutely nothing to do with strength or character any more than cancer, or any other disease does. Researchers have known for years that those with depression have a higher risk of heart disease and stroke. They more likely to die after a heart attack, and often have compromised immune systems, making them more vulnerable to infections and diseases.

Depression is a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors that go beyond mood.

7. Depression is more than just sadness

Everyone experiences periods of sadness or grief during their lifetime, but not everyone will experience a clinical depressive episode. When someone is depressed, something as simple as taking a shower can seem like a difficult task. Often one's view of themselves becomes so distorted they may see the world and everyone in it as an adversary, including family and friends.

Depression goes beyond sadness, affecting every aspect of the sufferer's life. It can be a debilitating disease, and as a primary cause of suicide, a fatal one. What do play a major role are feelings of inexplicable guilt, helplessness, and deep despair.