Submitted by Anjum Bashir, MD
There are more than 19 million adults in the United States living with depression and many more people could be suffering but are unaware that what they are feeling is depression, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. This common and treatable illness affects people from all walks of life and can significantly interfere with a person’s behavior, physical health, and interaction with others.
The more you know about depression, the more likely you are to be able to help yourself or help others. While great strides have been made in recent years to educate the public about depression and reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness, many myths still remain about the condition:
Myth #1: Depression is a character flaw.
Depression is not a personal weakness and it should be viewed as any other medical condition. People who are depressed are often unable to function as they had in the past and struggle to accomplish everyday tasks. This is not because they are lazy or being dramatic, it is because depression is a serious health issue that should be recognized and treated as early as possible. Both young people and adults who are depressed need professional treatment.
Myth #2: Only certain types of people have depression.
Depression affects all ages, races and genders. Sometimes people believe that only certain types of people can be depressed, but even people who seem to have everything — including a good job and healthy relationships — can have depression. While statistics show that some groups, like older adults, are more likely to suffer from depression, anyone can struggle with the illness. It can run in families, but anyone, even those without a family history, can be depressed.
Myth #3: Depression causes people to be violent.
People who are depressed are no more likely to be violent or commit crimes than members of the general population. Although some people with depression experience feelings of anger and sometimes have outbursts, the vast majority of people who have depression never harm anyone.
Myth #4: Depression is not a “real” illness.
If left untreated, depression can lead to extreme changes in mood, thoughts, behaviors and bodily functions, and, for some people, suicidal thoughts. Almost everyone who dies by suicide has given some clue or warning. Do not ignore suicide threats. Statements like “You’ll be sorry when I’m dead,” or “I can’t see any way out” — no matter how casually or jokingly said — may indicate serious suicidal feelings. If you or someone you know is in immediate danger because of thoughts of suicide, call 911 immediately. If there is no immediate danger but rather a need to talk to someone, call the national suicide prevention line at 800-273-TALK (800-273-8255).
Myth #5: Depression will go away on its own.
Positive thinking is not enough to cure depression. People cannot just “snap out of it.” Some people who have mild depression can make lifestyle changes which can help alleviate symptoms but most others need to seek treatment to get better. A mental health professional can make sure that symptoms are caused by depression and not some other medical condition. A combination of talk therapy and medication is the most common course of action to relieve symptoms. Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a new treatment for depression for people who don’t find relief through traditional treatments. TMS does not involve any type of drug or medication and has been demonstrated to be safe and effective with very few side effects.
Early detection is extremely important because 80 percent of people who receive some form of treatment for depression can learn to manage the condition and live a fulfilling life.
For more information about TMS Therapy, please contact Anjum Bashir, MD at 309-808-2326 or 217-422-0027. His Bloomington office is located at 205 N. Williamsburg, Suite D and he also has an office in Decatur. He is one of the few physicians in Central Illinois offering TMS Therapy for depression. TMS therapy is covered by most insurance companies including BC/BS, UBH and Medicare.
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