Myth: Depression is a character flaw and is a sign of weakness. Fact: Depression has nothing to do with strength of one’s character. It happens due to a complex interplay of biological and environmental risk factors and is a treatable condition like any other physical illness. With all the attached stigma, seeking help for depression is a sign of courage and not weakness. Myth: Depression is just “having the blues.” Fact: Depression is more just feeling sad or down in the dumps. The sadness is more persistent and pervades your day-to-day life and it, along with other symptoms of depression, makes it harder for you to function at your normal levels. Myth: You can just “snap out” of depression. Fact: Telling people with depression to just “snap out of it” never helps as depression, like other physical illnesses, takes time to heal. While treated episodes of depression lasts about three months, untreated depression may last from 6 to 13 months. Myth: Depression a
Written by a board-certified psychiatrist and an expert on self-management of depression, Harpreet Duggal, MD, this blog focuses on practical and proven methods of treating depression that go beyond medications and traditional therapy. It discusses elements of healthy lifestyle, positive psychology, relationships, values, strengths, communication, and wellness. No AI-assisted technology has been used in this blog. The content of the blog is not to be construed as treatment advice.