October is Depression Awareness Month: 5 Facts You Should Know

October is Depression Awareness Month, an opportunity to tackle the stigma and misunderstanding surrounding what depression is – and isn’t. 

Depression affects millions, but its impact often goes unnoticed. That’s why awareness matters.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), an estimated 332 million people worldwide suffer from depression, which is roughly 5.7% of the global population (WHO.org). 

Not only do millions suffer from depression, most go without proper treatment. Even in high income countries, only about a third of people diagnosed with depression receive professional treatment (WHO.org). 

In this blog post, we’ll first define what depression is and its symptoms, then share 5 facts and debunk myths about depression. We’ll also explore how to support someone who you think may be struggling with depression and where to seek out support. 

What is Depression?

Depression, also known as major depressive disorder, is a common and serious medical illness that negatively impacts how you think, feel, and act. Anyone of any gender at any age can suffer from depression, but on average it appears in the late teens and early 20s.

Symptoms of depression can include:

• Feeling sad, irritable, empty or hopeless

• Difficulty thinking or concentrating

• Forgetfulness

• Losing interest in things you enjoy

• A noticeable change in appetite resulting in significant weight gain or loss

• Sleeping too little or too much

• Fatigue

• Decreased energy

• Feeling worthless 

• Thoughts of death or suicide attempts

It’s important to note that symptoms can appear differently in each person, and may vary from mild to severe (Psychiatry.org).

5 Facts About Depression - and 5 Myths

Misinformation about depression is harmful and perpetuates stigmas. Below we debunk 5 myths and instead share 5 facts about depression.

• Myth: Depression isn’t a real illness and is made up.

• Fact: Depression is very real - it’s a common and serious mental health disorder that requires professional diagnosis and treatment.

• Myth: Depression only affects women.

• Fact: Depression affects both men and women; approximately 16% of women worldwide suffer from depression, vs. 10% of men (CDC.gov)

• Myth: Depression is a sign of weakness.

• Fact: Depression can be influenced by things like genetics, environmental factors, and other stressors. It is not a character flaw or a sign of weakness.

• Myth: Depression and sadness are the same thing.

• Fact: Sadness is a feeling that lasts for a short period of time, and depression is a prolonged mental health condition that can be debilitating.

• Myth: If someone seems happy or fine, they can’t be depressed.

• Fact: People with depression often learn to mask what they’re going through. When others assume they’re fine, it can make them feel unseen and discourage them from reaching out for support.
  

Learning to distinguish fact versus myth when it comes to depression helps dismantle harmful stigmas that can create barriers to treatment.

How to Support Someone Who’s Struggling

If you think someone you care about might be struggling with depression, the most important thing you can do is show up with empathy and patience. Feeling heard is the first step toward healing, so start by listening without judgement. Encourage them to talk about how they’re feeling, and avoid offering quick fixes or telling them to “cheer up.” 

Validate their emotions and let them know they’re not alone. Checking in, offering to spend time together, or helping with small daily tasks can also be helpful. If you ever believe they might be in danger, reach out for professional or emergency support right away.

Find Virtual Psychiatric Care for Depression

Professional care can be life-changing for someone living with depression. Virtual psychiatric services make it easier than ever to connect with licensed providers from the comfort and privacy of home - or anywhere you may need support. 

At Mae Mental Wellness, our virtual psychiatric providers Erin Lutchkus and Carol Milliken specialize in treating depression with an approach that’s personalized, supportive, and stigma-free. If you’re ready to take the next step toward healing, get in touch with us to schedule an appointment and begin your path toward better mental health.

To book an appointment at Mae Mental Wellness, you can fill out this form or call (561) 231-0233. Learn more about services we offer and which insurance we accept.