Myths and Misconceptions

It is time we dispel all of the myths, misconceptions, and rumors circulating among teens that prevent them from seeking out help:

Myth: “Teenagers are always temperamental; they don’t actually go through depression.  It’s just a stage their going through.”
Fact:  Depression affects people of all ages, especially teenagers.  This is not just a stage if the symptoms are evident.

Myth: “Telling someone that your friend needs help because you might think he or she is depressed will betray your friendship.”
Fact: You are doing the right thing by telling someone if your friend will not get help on their own. 

Myth: “Talking about depression will not make you feel any better or do anything.”
Fact: Talking about depression and admitting to having the symptoms are the first steps to recovery.  Talking will help you get the care and support of your friends and family, because they will be there for you if they know something is wrong and you want to talk.

Myth: “ My friends will never understand how I’m feeling and besides, it’s too embarrassing to explain these feelings.” 
Fact:  Unfortunately, a lot of teens who suffer from depression do not seek help because they are ashamed of their problem or feel embarrassed expressing themselves.  It is difficult for anyone, including adults, to share their problems with others.  Your family and friends have seen you through everything and are there to help you.  If you think you might be depressed and find that you have trouble sharing your feelings, look that the situation from this perspective.  If your friend or sibling were feeling sad and lonely would you ever look down on them? No, you would want to help them overcome these feelings, and they would want the same for you.  It is important to remember that depression is a medical illness and it is not your fault.  Like any other medical issues, it needs to be treated. 

Myth:  “I’m probably just moody.  If I wait, these feelings will probably just go away by themselves.” 
Fact: Being moody is very different from being depressed.  Everyone has a bad day when they temporarily feel sad or irritable; however if these feelings progress for weeks or months, something needs to done.  If you or a friend has displayed any symptoms of depression, it is time to get help because these feelings will not disappear without the proper treatment.