Myths About Depression

Throughout my years of battling depression I have come across many myths about depression. Some of these greatly affected my view and treatment of the illness. I'd like to address just a few of these.

1." Depression is something you can overcome." This statement in itself is ludicrous. Who would not do anything possible to overcome their depression if they could. I've tried everything possible in attempt to rid myself of this horrible sickness. You cannot "will" it away-it is much deeper than that.

2. "Depression is a spiritual problem." Oh boy, have I heard that one and even believed it. There are many causes for depression. Heredity, chemical imbalances in the brain, trauma, and the list goes on. While God has certainly said He will never leave us or forsake us, that is not a guarantee of healing. It simply means He will be with us it through it. And while He is certainly able to heal us, there are times that He allows us to walk through trials with Him by our side. 

3," Don't get caught up in that "psycho babble stuff"." Heard that one too. While I'm sure there are incompetent people in the psychiatry, psychology, and counseling areas, the truth is most are reputable and have gone into the field to help people with mental illnesses. Psychiatrists mainly deal with medications. Psychologists work in the field of understanding the causes and effects of mental illnesses. Counselors help a person work through issues and trauma. I have been criticized for seeking help from these professionals. I have been most fortunate in having had two wonderful counselors that I honestly don't know if I'd be here if it weren't for them. It has been a double blessing for me that both were Christians and able to know where I'm coming from. Here I want to emphasize that NEVER ONCE has a counselor suggested or stated or lead me to believe that my problems stem from any given experience. I have NEVER been lead to believe something. In my case, they have been objective competent people who I can talk to and get unbiased, non-judgmental counsel. 

4. "Don't get messed up with all that psychiatric medication stuff". Again I believed that. I can't tell you how many times I have tried to "wean" myself off of my medication-always with dire results. The truth is, some people need medication. In my case it allows me to lead as near normal life as possible. I finally realized the truth that I need these medications and that ok! Sure, I'd love to not have to take them but I have reached the conclusion the hard way that they are necessary for me. I'm done feeling guilty for it and have accepted it. Except for a miracle from the Lord, I will more than likely be on medication for my lifetime. That is not being negative or living in unbelief-it is facing the facts and managing my problems in a way that helps me. No one tells a diabetic, cancer patient, or someone with high blood pressure that it is a spiritual problem. That they should get off all that medication; yet that advice is freely given to those with a mental illness. So, I'm done feeling guilty for it and I emphasize to those who want to guilt me into feeling bad for being on medication-save your breath-you obviously have not experienced what I have. 

5."Go to your pastor for counsel-thats all you really need." I mention this one for the simple fact that this is advice often given. Now don't misunderstand me-pastors are wonderful counsel on certain subjects. Marriage, personal problems, spiritual advice, etc. they're your man and I am thankful for them. However, when it comes to an illness, like any other illness, you need a person trained specifically for your needs. 

These are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to myths on depression. Hopefully in the near future we can address others.

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Thanks once again for reading. I welcome your comments. There have been some problems I've been told in being able to get on and comment. Please read the directions given by Cacey in my former blog on how to get on. Love and happiness, Deb