Myths That Keep People Down
Depression is cloudy enough without myths that keep people down and alone. Myths also keep people away from treatment. "I'm just tired." "I should be able to deal with this myself." "Nothing will help, so why bother?" If you believe any of these myths, you may be denying depression in yourself or someone you care about. Trying to cover up depression or pretending to feel fine doesn't help: it hurts, since the longer depression lasts, the harder it is to recover.
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When in fact:
Feeling sad, alone, or discouraged is a normal reaction to a major loss or disappointment. But if these feelings last more than a few weeks, this temporary sadness could mask a real depression. The most caring thing you can do for yourself is to reach out for help, from your family, a friend, or a concerned professional. You really can help yourself to feel better and enjoy life again.
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When in fact:
A close family member can play a major role in opening the door to recovery, because a depressed person may be emotionally "stuck" and too overwhelmed to ask for help. A family member is sometimes the best person to reach through the isolation, show care and concern in a personally meaningful way, and encourage a depressed person into treatment.
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When in fact:
Left untreated, a severely depressed person may consider–and carry out–suicide. People of all ages and religions commit suicide, often to escape their profound despair. If someone you know seems depressed, show you care and encourage him or her, with tact and true concern, to seek professional help. A suicidal gesture should be taken seriously: it may unexpectedly work.
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