Even though depression is frequently mentioned casually in contemporary discourse, it remains imperative to acknowledge its status as a multifaceted mental disorder which affects millions on a daily. No matter what a lot of uncles on WhatsApp might say, it is, in fact, not a choice. It is not a sign of personal weakness. Instead, it is a serious medical condition which affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves, often leading to difficulties in functioning in daily life.

Depression is more than just a feeling of sadness; it is a more persistent feeling of sadness, hopelessness, and emptiness that drains out a person. Although depression might just seem like a disorder caused by external factors, it is actually due to a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors, it depends on a lot of external and internal causes on whether a person develops depression. Two people going through depression might experience difference symptoms. It can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, or background and may be triggered by various factors, including genetic predisposition, traumatic life events, chronic stress, or chemical imbalances in the brain. Depression can manifest in different ways, from mild to severe, and may co-occur with other mental health conditions such as anxiety disorders.

The stigma surrounding depression arises from various misconceptions, fear, and societal norms that contribute to discrimination, shame, and silence about such a serious disorder. People with depression may be labelled as weak, lazy, or attention-seeking, leading to reluctance to seek help, feelings of isolation and self-blame. Additionally, cultural beliefs and stereotypes about mental illness can further perpetuate stigma and prevent individuals from seeking help. Stigma and discrimination often lead to worsening of the symptoms and leads to negative effects on the journey of recovery. Breaking this stigma created by society often becomes a challenging task for the person going through depression.

Overcoming depression involves a multifaceted approach that addresses biological, psychological, and social factors that contribute to the disorder. Treatment options may include therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and support from loved ones. Several types of therapies, like CBT, etc, have come up in recent years to help individuals who suffer from depression. These therapies help individuals recognise negative thought patterns, develop helpful coping strategies, identify risk factors, and build resilience. Even medications like antidepressants have been developed which can help alleviate symptoms and help individuals to get their lives back. Some other practices which can be followed are meditation, improved eating and sleep habits, walks, etc.

It's time we challenge the misconceptions about depression in society and talk about it. Support from friends, family, and professionals in the healthcare line plays a crucial role when it comes to overcoming depression. Fostering a non-judgmental and accepting environment for individuals who are dealing with depression can make them feel heard, validated, understood and encouraged to seek help. Peer support groups and community resources can also provide needed connections and resources for those dealing with depression. Empowering and encouraging individuals to share their experiences openly and advocate for their needs helps reduce stigma and promotes a sense of empowerment and resilience.

Take Action Today & Let Go of the Grey

It's time we take education initiatives, form public campaigns, etc. to reach the masses and educate them about depression. We as a society need to be more advocates and vocal about such prevalent disorders, whose cases are just rising day by day. It's time we understood that depression is not, in fact, a choice but rather a trap. 

If you feel like you've been stuck in the grey of depression, don't stay silent, it's okay to reach out for help. Click here to talk to a mental health professional