When most people think of depression, they think of someone who’s just feeling down for no reason. They may think that person can just “snap out of it” if they really want to. But depression isn’t something that you can just switch off. It doesn’t work like that.

Depression is not a choice; it’s a real mental health condition that can be extremely debilitating and even fatal if left untreated. There are many different reasons why people may feel depressed, but the choice is certainly not one of them.

Depression doesn’t discriminate – it can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, race, or socioeconomic status. It is a complex illness that can be caused by a variety of factors, and it is often very difficult to overcome without treatment.

This article will explore the causes of depression and dispel the myth that it is something that can be easily controlled or simply snapped out of. Additionally, it will provide information on what can be done to fight depression and how to get help if you are struggling.

Understanding Depression 

All of us feel down or sad at times. Depression, however, is more than just feeling sadness or grief. It is a serious illness that can have a profound effect on every aspect of a person’s life. Depression can cause physical as well as psychological symptoms.

It can make it difficult to work, study, eat, sleep, and enjoy hobbies and social activities. People with depression may also have negative thoughts and feelings about themselves and the world around them. In severe cases, depression can lead to suicide.

If you think you may be depressed, it is important to seek help from a doctor or mental health professional. With treatment, most people with depression improve and are able to return to their normal activities.

Why Depression Is Not A Choice? 

There are a lot of myths and misconceptions out there about depression. One of the most common is that it’s a choice. People who are depressed can just “snap out of it” if they really wanted to. But depression isn’t something you can just turn on and off like a switch.

It’s a real, serious condition that can be incredibly tough to deal with. Here are a few reasons why depression is not a choice: 

• It’s not something you can just will yourself out of. Depression is a complex condition that can involve changes in brain chemistry, hormones, and other factors. It’s not something you can just talk yourself out of. 
• It’s not always caused by life events or circumstances. Sometimes people assume that depression is always caused by things like job loss, relationship problems, or other stressful life events. But sometimes depression can occur without any external triggers. It could be due to genetic factors, chemical imbalances, or other issues. 
• It’s not always controllable with positive thinking. Depression can muddle your thinking and make it hard to see the silver lining in anything. That’s one of the symptoms of the condition, and it’s not something you can just control with positive thinking or motivation. 

At the end of the day, depression is a real medical condition that deserves attention and treatment. If you’re dealing with depression, know that it’s not your fault and you’re not alone. There are lots of resources out there to help you cope and get back to feeling like yourself again.

6 Common Myths About Depression

Depression is a serious medical condition that affects millions of people around the world. Despite its prevalence, there are still many myths and misconceptions about what depression is and how it can be treated. Here are six common myths about depression, debunked:

1. Depression Is A Sign Of Personal Weakness

This couldn’t be further from the truth. Depression is caused by a combination of genetic, biochemical, and environmental factors, none of which have anything to do with personal weakness. In fact, people with depression often try very hard to hide their symptoms for fear of being seen as weak or crazy.

2. If You Eat Well And Exercise, You Will Never Become Depressed

While a healthy lifestyle can certainly help reduce your risk of developing depression, it’s not a guarantee. Depression can strike anyone at any time, regardless of diet or exercise habits.

And even if you do everything right, there may be other factors beyond your control that contribute to the development of depression.

3. People Who Are Depressed Are Just Being “Dramatic”

Depression is not a choice. It’s a real medical condition that can be incredibly debilitating. People who are depressed often can’t just “snap out of it” or “cheer up.” If you know someone who is struggling with depression, give them your support and understanding – they need it far more than they need your judgment.

4. Depression Is A Normal Reaction To Difficult Life Events

While it’s true that difficult life events can trigger episodes of depression, not everyone who goes through tough times will become depressed. And even if you do experience some symptoms of depression after a traumatic event, that doesn’t mean that your reaction is abnormal or wrong – it’s simply part of the grieving process.

Grief is normal; depression is not.

5. If You Take Antidepressants, Your Depression Will Go Away Immediately

Antidepressants take time to work – usually 4-6 weeks – and they don’t work for everyone. In addition, they need to be taken consistently in order to maintain their efficacy; skipping doses or stopping altogether can cause the symptoms of depression to come back in full force.

So if you’re thinking about starting antidepressant medication, be patient and stick with it – it may take some time to see results but it could be worth it in the end.  

6. You Can’t Do Anything About Depression – It’s Just A Chemical Imbalance In Your Brain…   

While imbalances in certain brain chemicals (including serotonin and norepinephrine) are thought to play a role in depression, this isn’t the whole story. There are things that people suffering from depression can do to help improve their condition.

Therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) have been proven to be effective in treating depression. Antidepressant medications and lifestyle changes like exercise and meditation can also help manage symptoms of depression.

Symptoms Of Depression 

While depression is not a choice, it can be incredibly difficult to manage. But, there are some common symptoms of depression that can help you identify whether or not you or someone you know is dealing with depression. 

Some common symptoms of depression include: 

• Feeling sad or empty most of the time. 
• Losing interest in hobbies or activities that used to bring joy. 
• Sleeping too much or too little. 
• Changes in appetite or weight. 
• Feeling tired all the time. 
• Feeling worthless or guilty. 
• Having trouble concentrating or making decisions.
• Feeling restless or agitated.
• Avoiding social contact or withdrawing from friends and family.
• Experiencing aches and pains with no known physical cause.
• Thinking about death or suicide. 

If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to reach out for help. Depression is a serious condition, but it is treatable. There are many resources available to help you get through this tough time.

9 Causes Of Depression That Prove Depression Is Not A Choice

Many people believe that depression is a choice, but this is not the case. Depression is caused by a combination of factors, including life changes, genetics, and brain chemistry. While depression can be triggered by a single event, it often occurs as a result of multiple factors. These are some of the common causes of depression:

1. Genetics And Family History 

Studies have shown that depression can be hereditary, which means it can be passed down from family members. If you have a parent or grandparent who suffers from depression, you may be more likely to suffer from it as well.

However, it is important to remember that just because depression may run in your family, does not mean that you are guaranteed to suffer from it. There are many other factors that can contribute to depression, and not everyone who has a family history of depression will necessarily experience it themselves. 

2. Life-Altering Events 

Life changes, such as bereavement or job loss, can lead to depression. Other stressful life events, such as divorce or relationship problems, can also trigger depression. Some people are more vulnerable to depression than others due to genetics or brain chemistry.

This means that even small life changes can lead to depression in susceptible individuals. While depression is not a choice, it is possible to seek treatment and make lifestyle changes that can help to improve your mood and outlook on life.

3. Suffering From A Chronic Illness 

Chronic illness can be a cause of depression. Having an illness that isn’t going away can be very depressing. You may feel like you’ll never get better and that your life is never going to improve. Illness can also make it difficult to do the things you enjoy or to see the people you care about, because of which you may feel isolated and alone.

This can make depression worse.

When you are constantly dealing with pain, fatigue, and other symptoms, it can be difficult to maintain a positive outlook on life. Depression is not a choice, and there is no shame in seeking help. With proper treatment, you can learn to manage your depression and live a fulfilling life.

4. Losing A Near And Dear One 

The death of a loved one can cause depression because it is a significant loss. It can be hard to cope with the death of a loved one, especially if the death was unexpected or sudden. The death of a loved one can also cause depression because it can lead to changes in lifestyle and routine.

For example, if the person who died was the primary breadwinner, the surviving spouse may have to find a job to support the family. This can be a difficult adjustment to make. The death of a loved one can also cause depression because it can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness.

This is especially true if the person who died was close to the survivor. The death of a loved one is a major life event that can cause depression.

5. Having Suffer From Abuse 

Depression is a complex mental illness that can have a variety of causes. While there is no single cause of depression, abuse is a major contributing factor. Abuse can take many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, and financial.

Victims of abuse often feel isolated, helpless, and worthless.

They may become withdrawn and lose interest in activities that they once enjoyed. Abuse can also lead to changes in brain chemistry, which can further contribute to feelings of hopelessness and despair. If you or someone you know is experiencing depression, it’s important to seek help from a mental health professional. With proper treatment, depression is a very treatable illness.

6. Lack Of Social Mobility 

One of the most common causes of depression is a lack of socialization. When people are isolated from others, they often become lonely and depressed. This is because human beings are social creatures and need interaction with others in order to stay mentally healthy.

Loneliness can lead to feelings of worthlessness and despair, which can in turn lead to depression. If you or someone you know is feeling isolated, it is important to encourage them to seek out social activities or counseling. 

7. Medication

Depression is a mood disorder that can be caused by a number of different factors. Medications are one such factor. Some medications, such as those used to treat high blood pressure or arthritis, can cause depression as a side effect.

Other medications, such as steroids, can also lead to depressive symptoms. Even birth control pills can lead to depression. In some cases, the problem may be related to the dosage of the medication or the length of time it is taken.

If you think your medication may be causing depression, talk to your doctor about changing the dose or switching to a different medication.

8. Seasonal Affective Disorder

Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is a form of depression that typically occurs during the winter months. The shorter days and lack of sunlight can lead to feelings of sadness, fatigue, and isolation.

For many people, SAD is a yearly occurrence, and it can be mild enough to barely notice or severe enough to interfere with day-to-day life. There are a few different theories about what causes SAD, but the most likely explanation is that it’s due to a disruption in the body’s natural circadian rhythms.

The lack of sunlight during winter can throw off the body’s internal clock, leading to fatigue and low energy. Some research has also suggested that SAD may be caused by an imbalance in the brain chemicals serotonin and melatonin.

People with SAD may be more sensitive to changes in light exposure and may produce less serotonin in response to reduced sunlight. Symptoms of SAD can include all of the symptoms of general depression, as well as cravings for carbohydrates, weight gain, and increased sleepiness.

9. Psychological Factors 

There are various psychological factors that can contribute to depression. For example, people who have a history of mental health problems are more likely to experience depression at some point in their lives.

Additionally, low self-esteem and negative thinking patterns can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair, which can trigger a depressive episode. Some people may also be more prone to depression due to neurochemical imbalances or genetic factors.

Whatever the cause, it is important to seek professional help if you are experiencing symptoms of depression. With proper treatment, it is possible to manage your condition and live a fulfilling life.

5 Treatments For Depression

Depression is a serious mental illness that can have a profound impact on every aspect of a person’s life. It is important to seek treatment for depression as soon as possible. There are a number of effective treatments available, and working with a mental health professional can help you find the right approach for you. Some common treatments for depression include:

1. Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is a form of treatment for depression that involves talking with a mental health professional to identify and work through negative thoughts and behaviors. Studies have shown that psychotherapy can be an effective treatment for depression, particularly when combined with medication.

Some of the most common types of psychotherapy used to treat depression include cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, and psychodynamic therapy. Each type of psychotherapy uses different techniques to help people struggling with depression identify and change negative thoughts and behaviors.

However, all types of psychotherapy share the goal of helping people manage their depression in a more positive way.

2. Interpersonal Therapy

Interpersonal therapy, or IPT, is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on improving communication and relationships. It can be an effective treatment for depression, as it can help people to understand and express their feelings, set boundaries, and resolve conflicts.

IPT usually lasts for 12-16 weeks, and people typically meet with their therapist once a week for 50-60 minutes. During sessions, patients will learn about communication skills and emotional expressions. They will also work on identifying and resolving interpersonal problems.

3. Medication 

In severe cases, medication can be an important part of treatment, alongside therapy and lifestyle changes. This is because in extreme cases, people with depression may not have the energy or motivation to make changes on their own.

Medication can help to give them a boost so that they can stick with their treatment plan and make the necessary changes. Of course, medication is not a cure-all, and it’s important to also work on other aspects of your life if you want to overcome depression.

But in severe cases, it can be a helpful tool.

4. Exercise And Diet

While therapy and medication are often critical for treating depression, it’s also important to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Exercise and diet can play a big role in managing depression. Just as importantly, though, these healthy habits can help to prevent depression from developing in the first place.

Regular exercise has been shown to be an effective treatment for depression. It can help to improve mood, increase energy levels, and reduce stress. Diet is also important for managing depression.

Eating a healthy diet can help to improve mood and energy levels, and it can also reduce inflammation. Both exercise and diet can help to improve sleep quality, which is often disturbed in people with depression.

Some specific dietary changes that may help to reduce symptoms of depression include:

• Eating more omega-3 fatty acids, which are found in fish, nuts, and seeds
• Increasing your intake of folate, which is found in leafy green vegetables, legumes, and fortified foods
• Eating more magnesium-rich foods, such as dark chocolate, pumpkin seeds, and yogurt

5. Self-Care

Self-care is important for everyone, but it’s especially crucial if you’re struggling with depression. Depression can make it hard to motivate yourself to do even the simplest things, like getting out of bed in the morning or taking a shower.

But there are lots of small things you can do to take care of yourself that can make a big difference. Here are a few self-care ideas to get you started: 

• Get moving. Exercise releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects. A walk around the block is a great place to start.
• Connect with nature. Spend time outside in nature, and take in the sights and sounds of your surroundings.
• Feed your body right. Eating nutritious foods helps your body to function at its best. Make sure to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet.
• Make time for yourself. Dedicate some time each day to doing something that makes you happy. It doesn’t have to be anything big – just something that brings you joy.
• Seek professional help. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, talk to a therapist or counselor who can help you develop healthy coping mechanisms for dealing with depression.

Self-Help For Mild Depression

Feeling down from time to time is a normal part of life. Everyone experiences sadness, grief, or disappointment at some point. But if you’re feeling down for more than a week or two, and it’s impacting your ability to function day-to-day, you may be experiencing mild depression.

Depression is a serious medical condition that requires professional treatment, but there are also some things you can do to help yourself feel better. These self-help tips for mild depression can provide some relief and help you start to feel like yourself again.

Here are some things you can do to help ease your depression: 

• Get regular exercise: Exercise releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects. Even a moderate amount of exercise can help to improve your mood and alleviate symptoms of depression.
• Connect with others: Isolation can worsen symptoms of depression, so it’s important to make an effort to connect with family and friends. Spending time with loved ones can help to boost your mood and give you a sense of support.
• Do something you enjoy: When you’re depressed, it can be hard to find things that bring you joy. But making an effort to do things you used to enjoy – or trying out new activities – can help you start to feel better.
• Be mindful: Mindfulness is all about being present in the moment and focusing on your thoughts, emotions, and sensations without judgment. Practicing mindfulness can help to ease symptoms of depression by helping you become more aware of your thoughts and feelings.
• Give yourself time: Depression takes time to heal. Be patient with yourself and don’t expect things to get better overnight. But know that each day is a new opportunity to try again. You will get through this tough time.

Takeaway

Depression is a serious mental illness that affects millions of people around the world. It is often misunderstood and stigmatized, with people assuming that it is simply a choice to be unhappy. However, depression is much more complex than that. It is a medical condition that can be caused by a variety of factors, including genetics,chemical imbalances, and stressful life events.

While it may not be possible to completely eliminate depression, there are many effective treatments available. With the right help, people with depression can learn to manage their symptoms and live fulfilling lives.

References

Leykin, Y., Roberts, C. S., & DeRubeis, R. J. (2010). Decision-Making and Depressive Symptomatology. Cognitive Therapy and Research, 35(4), 333–341. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10608-010-9308-0

Islam, M. A., Barna, S. D., Raihan, H., Khan, M. N. A., & Hossain, M. T. (2020). Depression and anxiety among university students during the COVID-19 pandemic in Bangladesh: A web-based cross-sectional survey. PLOS ONE, 15(8), e0238162. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0238162