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Depression

5 Myths About Depression Men (and Everyone) Need to Stop Believing

Joshua Beharry
 • 
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There are many misconceptions about depression that make it difficult for men to talk to others and take charge of their health. So, I’m going to expose some of the most common myths — with images made by HeadsUpGuys — in hopes to encourage men to take action and fight depression.

Here are some myths about depression men need to stop believing:

Myth #1: Depression is a sign of personal weakness.

Image of a two men talking. On the left it reads: Myth: Depression is a sign of personal weakness. On the right it reads: Reality: Even the toughest men we know can experience depression.

Depression can affect anyone including professional athletes, musicians, actors, lawyers, businessmen, writers, tradesmen, teachers, men in the military and everyone in between. Being depressed has nothing to do with personal weakness. It takes strength to fight depression.

Myth #2: Depression is a life sentence.

On the left it reads: Myth: Depression is a life sentence. On the right it reads: Depression can be treated and recovery is possible.

When you’re depressed it may not seem like recovery is possible, but depression is clouding your thoughts. The fact is that many guys, including men who have tried to end their lives, have recovered from depression and suicidal thoughts.

Myth #3: Real men don’t ask for help.

On the left it reads, Myth: Real men don't ask for help. On the right it reads: Reality: Real strength is making the most of the people are resources available.

Many guys feel the need to solve things on their own and don’t like to ask for support whenever it can be avoided. But in other situations, like sports or physiotherapy, the same guys are more open to seeking the advice of professionals. Make the most of the services and supports available in your area.

Myth #4: If I can find a way to plough through, I can defeat depression on my own. 

On the left it reads: If I can find a way to plough through, I can beat depression in my own." On the right it reads, Reality: It takes a team to fight depression.

You win no awards for fighting depression on your own. Friends and family members are valuable supports in a guy’s recovery and often want nothing more than to support a man they care about.

Myth #5: Talking to a guy about depression will make things worse.

On the left it reads myth: Talking to a guy about depression will make things worse. On the right it reads: Reality: Your support could make his recovery possible.

Better health starts with a conversation. Though it may be difficult or awkward at first, talking about depression could actually end up changing a man’s life. Take the initiative to be a key step in his recovery, if he isn’t ready let him know you’re there whenever he needs.

To learn more about depression in men, visit HeadsUpGuys.

Lead photo: HeadsUpGuys

Joshua Beharry
 • 

Since recovering from experiences with depression in 2010, Josh has become a passionate advocate for mental health. Josh is currently the project coordinator for HeadsUpGuys, a website targeting men’s depression.

joshua-beharry
Originally published: April 27, 2016
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