5 Things About Depression That You Know, But Others Don’t

The social acceptance of this disease leaves a lot to be desired, sufferers still have to fear professional or social exclusion.

“You actually have depression.”  In this way, the psychologist or psychiatrist confirms a fact that most of those affected already know or have dealt with. More and more people are suffering from depression. Are we getting further and further away from our happiness in an advanced, technological society?

Many patients face a great challenge because it is not easy to get rid of depression. In addition, grief and psychological disorders are still being played down. 

Depression cannot be equated with other diagnoses, such as high blood pressure or elevated uric acid levels, because it is a complex, destructive condition that needs to be treated accordingly.

Depressed people therefore often fight on two fronts: They have to try to leave the black tunnel again and also  endure the social pressure,  because many still see this disease as a sign of weakness, lack of control, hypersensitivity or overreaction.

In today’s article we are going to look at 5 aspects of depression because it is a very complex and difficult subject. If you’ve been depressed before, you know what we’re talking about.

1. I am NOT weak, I did NOT let myself go

Depressed people know very well that this mental disorder is not an excuse to let go, not to have to face certain situations or to be a voluntary slave to circumstances.

• Depressed people make themselves responsible for their situation. If this is confirmed from the outside, it will only make things a lot worse.

• This can further aggravate anxiety, depression or stress.
• We are talking about an illness in which there is usually a withdrawal from society, which is intensified when people close to you do not understand the situation.

The causes are different and very complex. A change in brain chemistry or external triggers can be the triggers, for example.

2. I will NOT be well in a month and I know that drugs are NOT a definitive solution

Another misconception that many people hold onto is to assume that these psychological processes can be resolved with simple medical treatment.

• Medicines do not solve the causes, they only treat the symptoms. Drug treatment alone is therefore not sufficient.
• It is not a disease that will go away after a period of time.
• The depression can recur at any time. Therefore, it is important to learn psychological strategies in order to be able to manage these recurring depressive states. The support of family and friends is very important!

However, if you tell the person concerned every day with statements like  “How are you today? Don’t worry, in a month you’ll be over it ” , it won’t make the problem any better!

3. I have depression that was NOT caused by sadness

Sadness and depression often go hand in hand, but this is a much more complex topic so it is worth exploring:

• We feel sadness in negative situations, for example the loss of a loved one, after disappointments or unfulfilled expectations …
• This feeling is part of life, as are joy, anger and other emotions, but not illness.
• However, depression is a DISEASE. Sadness can play a role as a trigger or symptom, but the consequences are far more complex: anhedonia, suicidal thoughts, fear, feelings of guilt …

Depression is complex and difficult to treat, but the feeling of sadness is just a thread of this intricate fabric.

4. I want to be alone, but I need you

Depressed people often have conflicting feelings, they want to be alone and withdraw, but at the same time they need help and support from family and friends.

However, this psychological and emotional reality will not be spoken out loud by a person with depression.

The offer of help must therefore come from outside,  people close to them should take care of the depressed person intensively and offer support. 

5. Not everything happens in my mind

Many are unaware that constant fatigue, chronic stress, or persistent insomnia can gradually lead to depression. 

• Not everything happens in the mind. Sometimes depression is the result of physical exhaustion, changes in brain chemistry, or is caused by diseases such as fibromyalgia.

When the body suffers, the mind also suffers.

If you know someone who has depression, you should try to understand the situation because people are going through very difficult times and need help and support to see the light in their lives again.