Every once in a while, a suicide related to depression will make the headlines. In fact, depression is one of the leading global health problems. However, there are still many false beliefs and assumptions regarding it. Because of the stigma that surrounds depression, those who suffer from it frequently encounter discrimination.

We are dispelling these common misconceptions about depression:

Myth 1: Depression is mere sadness.
Sadness is a symptom of depression, but it also entails emotional symptoms like feelings of worthlessness and physical symptoms like changes in appetite and sleep quality.
Myth 2: Antidepressants are a surefire way to treat it.
Medication management is only one of the many ways to treat depression. It must sometimes be combined with other interventions based on what the doctor may prescribe.
Myth 3: You can cure depression if you only think of positive thoughts.
Like diabetes or asthma, depression is a severe medical condition that needs proper treatment. It isn’t just laziness, self-pity, or weakness in character.

Do not disregard your feelings of depression as something that happens to “normal” people. Instead, seek the help of mental health professionals. Getting the assistance, you need to deal with your condition is something they can assist you with.