There is plenty of misinformation about depression circulating the internet. It seems that people often think they know more about depression than those who have it, or even psychiatrists/psychologists. The truth is that we suffer with a mental disorder that makes it difficult to live life in the same way that others do. Here are a few examples that I often get seen thrown around.
1. We're faking it for attention
This is such an idiotic thing to say. Yes, I'm pretending to not have executive functioning. You've foiled my plot. I guess I should magically self-regulate now.
2. We're just sad
This is an honest mistake. Depression is always depicted as being a constant storm cloud over our heads or looking out the window longingly. For some people, it is sadness. For others, it's numbness. Depression is so complex and everyone experiences it differently. Because of this, it is impossible to depict it as a single emotion. It's more of a mixture of emotions and dysfunctions.
3. You can choose to be happy
Absolutely not. This misconception is insulting because it is pushing the blame onto people with depression. If someone is physically ill, you wouldn't tell them they can just choose to be healthy. A positive outlook can be a choice, but our emotions are not a switch we can flip whenever we so choose.
4. Exercise is the cure
Yes, exercise can help. Yes, some people choose to not take medication, and if that works for them, then that's wonderful. However, going for a jog around the neighborhood feels impossible when you can hardly get out of bed or eat something. Telling me that I should exercise is the least helpful thing to do.
5. Taking medications means you're weak
No, no, no. Medication has saved people's lives. Medication isn't for everyone, and some people opt to not take it for their own reasons and that's totally fine, but please do NOT judge people who do decide to take it. It is their business to find what works best for them, and it is your job to respect that.