The correct answer is: Myth
Depression isn’t simply a temporary case of “the blues.” It’s a common, serious medical condition that can disrupt one’s daily functioning. At the extreme, people with depression may harm themselves. Brain imaging research shows that the brains of people with depression function differently than those of non-depressed people. In depressed people, brain areas that regulate mood, behavior, thinking, appetite and sleep seem to function abnormally. Also, important brain chemicals called neurotransmitters appear to be out of balance.
The correct answer is: Myth
Depression isn’t simply a temporary case of “the blues.” It’s a common, serious medical condition that can disrupt one’s daily functioning. At the extreme, people with depression may harm themselves. Brain imaging research shows that the brains of people with depression function differently than those of non-depressed people. In depressed people, brain areas that regulate mood, behavior, thinking, appetite and sleep seem to function abnormally. Also, important brain chemicals called neurotransmitters appear to be out of balance.
The correct answer is: Myth
Because depression can run in families, scientists suspect that genes play a role. You’re three times more likely to develop depression if your parents suffered depression. But it’s not inevitable that you’ll get the illness, too. Scientists believe the risk of developing depression results from a combination of genetic, biochemical, psychological, and environmental factors.
The correct answer is: Myth
Depression affects people from all walks of life, not just people with previous emotional troubles. Depression can strike after the loss of a loved one, trauma, or other stressful situations like the loss of a job.
The correct answer is: Fact
Only 39% of people with severe depression see a mental health professional. People with depression often see their primary care doctor. Also, many depressed patients remain undiagnosed or undertreated. Some cases of depression are tough to treat. But the vast majority of cases are highly treatable with antidepressants and talk therapy. The earlier treatment begins, the more effective it is.
The correct answer is: Myth
People assume the elderly suffer depression most often. In fact, middle-aged people 40 to 59 have the highest rates of depression. Depression is not a normal part of aging. However, ill health, medication side effects, social isolation, and financial troubles can trigger depression in elderly people. Older people belong to a generation that often feels ashamed to admit to feelings of sadness and grief. But it’s crucial that they seek help, especially because white men 85 and older have the highest suicide rate.
The correct answer is: Fact
Depression causes emotional symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, and hopelessness. But it can also cause physical symptoms such as chest pain, queasy or nauseated sensations, dizziness or lightheadedness, chest pain, sleep problems, exhaustion, and changes in weight and appetite. It can also worsen back and joint pain and muscle aches.
The correct answer is: Myth
Different types of psychotherapy, or talk therapy, have been proven effective in treating depression. For example, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) teaches people new ways of thinking to replace negative thoughts and behaviors that contribute to depression. In another approach, interpersonal therapy (IPT) helps people to understand troubled relationships and find ways to work through the difficulties.
The correct answer is: Myth
Depression is debilitating. Most people with the disorder will require treatment to get better. Few can will themselves to get well through positive thinking. Depressed people may need medication to normalize brain chemicals.