Depression Myths

Myths about depression often separate people from the effective treatments that they may need.

Common Myths

Myth: It's normal for teenagers to be moody; Teens don't suffer from "real" depression.
Fact: Depression can affect people at any age or of any race, ethnic or economic group.

Myth: Teens who claim to be depressed are weak and just need to pull themselves together. There's nothing anyone else can do to help.
Fact: Depression is not a weakness, but a serious health disorder. Both young people and adults who are depressed need professional treatment. A trained therapist or counselor can help them learn more positive ways to think about themselves, change behavior, cope with problems or handle relationships. A physician can prescribe medications to help relieve the symptoms of depression. For many people, a combination of psychotherapy and medication is beneficial.

Myth: Talking about depression only makes it worse.
Fact: Talking through feelings may help a friend recognize the need for professional help. By showing concern and giving uncritical support, you can encourage your friend to talk to her parents or another trusted adult, like a teacher or coach, about getting treatment. If your friend is reluctant to ask for help, you can talk to an adult--that's what a real friend would do.

Myth: Telling an adult that a friend might be depressed is betraying a trust. If someone wants help, he will get it.
Fact: Depression, which saps energy and self-esteem, interferes with a person's ability or wish to get help. And many parents may not understand the seriousness of depression or of thoughts of death or suicide. It is an act of true friendship to share your concerns with a school guidance counselor, a favorite teacher, your own parents or another trusted adult.

Know the Symptoms
The first step toward defeating depression is to define it. But people who are depressed often have a hard time thinking clearly or recognizing their own symptoms. They may need your help. Check the following to see if a friend or friends have had any of these symptoms persisting longer than two weeks.

Do they express feelings of:
--sadness or "emptiness"?
--hopelessness, pessimism or guilt?
--helplessness or worthlessness?

Do they seem:
--unable to make decisions?
--unable to concentrate and remember?
--have lost interest or pleasure in ordinary activities like sports, band or talking on the phone?
--have more problems with school and family?

Do they complain of:
--loss of energy and drive?
--trouble falling asleep, staying asleep or getting up?
--appetite problems; are they losing or gaining weight?
--headaches, stomach aches or backaches?

Has their behavior changed suddenly so that:
--they are more irritable?
--they want to be alone most of the time?
--they've started cutting classes or dropped hobbies and activities?
--you think they may be drinking heavily or taking drugs?

Have they talked about:
--death?
--suicide?

Have they ever attempted suicide?

Find Someone who can Help
If you answered "yes" to several of the items, your friend may need help. Don't assume that someone else is taking care of the problem. Negative thinking, inappropriate behavior or physical changes need to be reversed as quickly as possible. Not only does treatment lessen the severity of depression, treatment also may reduce the length of time (duration) your friend is depressed and may prevent additional bouts of depression.

If a friend shows many symptoms of depression, you can listen and encourage her to ask a parent or teacher about treatments. If your friend doesn't seek help quickly, talk to an adult you trust and respect--especially if your friend mentions death or suicide.

There are many places in the community where people with depressive disorders can be diagnosed and treated. Help is available from family doctors, mental health specialists in community mental health centers or private clinics, and from other health professionals. Ask your health care providers if they know someone who treats depressive disorders.