Is depression a myth made up from society or a real mental illness? Depression is an intricate and widely recognized mental health condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide. Regardless, there exists a persistent debate regarding its nature: is depression a legitimate mental illness, or is it merely a myth perpetuated by society? By analyzing the scientific evidence, discussing the impact of societal stigma, and evaluating the experiences of individuals living with depression, we can shed light on the reality of this pervasive condition.
Validating Depression as a Mental Illness:
Comprehensive scientific research supports the recognition of depression as a genuine mental illness. Multiple studies have demonstrated the biological,
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Society often trivializes depression or dismisses it as a mere product of weakness or lack of resilience. Such perspectives perpetuate the myth that depression is not a genuine illness but rather a personal flaw or character weakness.
This societal stigma encircling depression not only undermines individuals' experiences but also hinders their willingness to seek help. Many people with depression suffer in silence, fearing judgment and organization. The hostile attitudes and lack of understanding surrounding mental health perpetuate the myth that depression is not a real illness, further exacerbating the challenges faced by those affected.
Experiences and Validations from Individuals with Depression:
To understand the reality of depression, we must take notice of the voices of individuals who have experienced it firsthand. Numerous personal accounts highlight the profound impact of depression on their lives, relationships, and overall well-being. The vigor of emotions, persistent feelings of hopelessness, and the disruption of daily functioning are recurring themes in these
According to Merriam-Webster, depression is, “a serious medical condition in which a person feels very sad, hopeless and unimportant and is often unable to live in a normal way.” While much of this is true, many people with depression find ways to blend in and conform with the rest of society. The main issue with depression is not necessarily the symptoms,
Rilee Peterson Showen Antidepressants, The Brave New World, and the Real World Imagine suffering day to day. Feeling as if the entire world around you is dark, disturbing, and at times even pointless. Approximately 14.8 million people in the United States, age eighteen and older, are currently suffering from this disorder known as depression. So what is depression anyways?
In recent years, mental health has become more of a common topic of discussion, with an increase in awareness and recognition. This awareness has helped educate individuals about the various aspects of mental health and how mental illness affects a person's life. However, stigma and negativity surrounding mental illnesses still exist and continue to spread. In addition, stigma has also caused mental illness to be normalized, which causes individuals to feel invalidated, frustrated and alone in their struggle. With this, mental illnesses need to be destigmatized not normalized, in order to combat the mental health crisis.
Throughout recent years, mental illness has become a belittled and “taboo” topic in a multitude of different societies. As a result, a majority of the world’s population isn’t exactly clear as to how one should approach those suffering from mental instability. Unlike physical illness, where an entire system of doctors and hospitals and medical research developed in order to cater to those who were physically ill, mental illnesses do not get nearly as much attention. Some would argue that a physical illness proves to be significantly more detrimental to one’s day to day life. However, observation of mentally ill individuals proves that mental illness can be as equally debilitating (you probably know someone in your life who has died from the
Szeto, Luong, and Dobson (2013) aimed to look at the perceptions of the labels “mental illness,” “mental disorder,” “mental health problem,” “mental disease,” and “depression.” The participants were undergraduate students in Canada who were taking psychology courses (Szeto et al., 2013). A total of 124 students participated. Participants were randomly assigned to one of the five labels and they completed a questionnaire packet that assessed their thoughts and feelings about the labels; the questionnaire packed included questions about social interactions, the workplace, stigma, prejudice and discrimination, and prognosis (Szeto et al., 2013). The results suggested that people viewed the label of “depression” in a more negative light than the other labels (Szeto et al., 2013).
And if all the previous hiccups were not of enough influence, adding shame and social unacceptance may just entirely put depression treatment at a halt. IV. Mental illnesses can be belittled or simply overlooked in most societies but when additional factors such as the ones mentioned above are present, the effects are culturally significant. Even though Education regarding mental health is increasing among Hispanic population, the vast unawareness is still a health concern in our society. V. Online Journal Articles Alegría, M., Mulvaney-Day, N., Torres, M., Polo, A., Cao, Z., & Canino, G. (2007).
Please Notice Me Depression does not discriminate against the people that suffer from it, any culture or race can have depression. Much like characters in Brave New World, people think that having depression can make an individual weak minded and they should be able to simply overcome it and be happy. However, depression is a mental illness that affects billions and can leave a negative impact on individuals live. Depression, a widespread mental illness this has been the subject of topic for psychologist for thousands of years, has many causes and effects that are being discovered everyday.
Questioning the Incomprehensible Mental illness is defined as health conditions involving changes in thinking, emotion or behavior (or a combination of these) (American Psychiatric Association). There are different types of depression and they effect people differently also. With major depression working, sleeping, eating and spending time with friends and family becomes difficult to do because there is the constant feeling of hopelessness. Seeing that I have family and friends who suffer from depression, I wanted to learn more and see why people who are depressed think the way they do, what goes on inside their head to make them feel hopeless and if medication is the only way to help deal with depression even though for some people medicine doesn’t fully help them. What is the science behind depression and what makes a person’s brain chemistry without depression different from someone who suffer with depression?
Charles Barber’s article, “The Medicated Americans: Antidepressants Prescriptions on the Rise,” focuses on the views of “depression” and “Depression” that are caused by antidepressants like Prozac, Paxil, and Norpramin. Barber talks about how people do not understand the differences of depression which causes misdiagnoses and misunderstanding of the two. One meaning of “Depression” is how it is used to do describe a serious medical condition and the other meaning a broad terming meaning feeling down, bummed out, or anything along those lines. A study conducted by the New England Research Institution showed that 43 percent of people who have been prescribed antidepressants did not have any diagnosis of depression or any mental health conditions.
This TedTalk is used to bring attention to depression and make it a discussion for all. Addressing the problem will then help to begin a change in the
Depression is a real illness and help is available. With proper diagnosis and treatment, the vast majority of people with depression will overcome it. If you are experiencing symptoms of depression, a first step is to see your family physician or psychiatrist. Talk about your concerns and request a thorough evaluation. This is a start to addressing mental health
There are people who discredit others with actual diseases by saying “oh your depression isn’t real you’re just sad and can’t handle it.” It’s people like that that begin the stigma against mental disorders. Growing up my best friend had bad depression and anxiety.
“Unfortunately, people are not transparent; you cannot look into their heads to see what they are thinking or feeling. You might not notice that what you are seeing could be the person’s cry for help” (Hittelman 1). No matter how close two people are, it is difficult to grasp what the other is thinking. Without any obvious hints, one can easily overlook a depression. “Million of people suffer from depression, yet many are putting on a brave face” (Mayoh 1).
One in ten children and adolescents will experience a period of major depression (“Mental Health Myths and Facts”). Many avoid the topic of mental health like the plague. In truth, people should be able to talk about mental illness and its repercussions on society and the individual. A minority of those affected with mental illnesses get help. Therefore, it is important to discuss possible solutions to helping those who suffer get treatment.
Why do the people of today still associate stigma, shame and blame with mental health issues? Mental health issues are extremely and widely misunderstood. Despite the fact one in four people are likely to experience some kind of mental health problem a year in the United Kingdom. “Mental health is a person’s condition with regard to their psychological and emotional well-being and it affects how we feel, think and act. It also helps to determine how we handle situations such as stress, how we relate to others and how we make decisions.