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Myths about depression often separate people from the effective treatments that they may need.
Myth 1
Myth: It's normal for teenagers to be moody; therefore, teens don't suffer from "real" depression.
Fact: Depression can affect people at any age or of any race, ethnic or economic group.
Myth 2
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 3
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 a depressed teen to talk to her parents or another trusted adult about getting treatment.
Myth 4
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.
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 duration and may prevent additional bouts of depression.
