It is relatively common knowledge that depression impacts millions of people worldwide. However, there remains a stigma attached to seeking treatment, specifically to the use of antidepressants. That said, research shows that antidepressants are the third most commonly prescribed medications in the United States. Still, more than a third of adults who describe themselves as having depression report that they receive no depression treatment.
At Rose Hill Center, we know that misinformation, discrimination, and negative stigmas attached to mental illness are factors that prevent people from seeking treatment. Thus, we are committed to being part of the effort to raise public awareness and educate the public about the wide-reaching impacts of mental illness and help eliminate the stigma associated with it. If you have questions about depression treatment and the benefits of antidepressants, we can provide the information you need. Call 866.367.0220 to learn more.
A Closer Look at the Stigma of Antidepressants
Historically, society has primarily viewed mental health disorders as character defects rather than illnesses. Countless people with mental illness were locked away, abused, subjected to invasive and dangerous medical procedures, and shunned from their families and society. It is little wonder, then, that the symptoms of mental illness led to shame and guilt not just for the affected person but for their family, thus the stigma.
Such long-rooted beliefs are difficult to overcome, so, despite modern advances in mental healthcare, there remains misinformation and misguided ideas about illnesses such as depression. Following is a closer look at common myths that led to the stigma of antidepressants:
- Depression is a choice or a sign of weakness – Mental health disorders are not a choice or a lack of willpower. They are health conditions just like diabetes or heart disease, and like these conditions, they need to be treated.
- Antidepressants are addictive – Addiction refers to a mindset to abuse substances despite consequences. These medications do not create a high or cause cravings to misuse them.
- Antidepressants are just a quick fix – In fact, these medications can take up to six weeks to become effective. Further, they only provide limited benefits if not used with therapy and self-care.
- Antidepressants are for crazy people – Many avoid antidepressants either because they do not think they are sick enough or because they think they are crazy if they need antidepressants.
- You have to take antidepressants forever – The amount of time you need antidepressants depends on your risk factors and symptoms and other measures taken to manage your mental health, such as therapy.
Antidepressants do not cause permanent changes to your brain or change your personality. They actually can reverse physical changes in the brain caused by depression and help your true self emerge.
Overcome Antidepressant Stigma in Holly, Michigan
Rose Hill Center in Holly, Michigan, is one of the nation’s top residential mental health facilities. Experts in treating depression and a wide range of other mental health disorders, our compassionate treatment team members understand the fears associated with mental health treatment, including the use of antidepressants. We work closely with each of our residents to develop a treatment plan best suited to their unique needs.
On our 400-acre rural campus, residents enjoy a welcoming, home-like setting with private or semi-private rooms. Our levels of care include:
- Residential rehabilitation services
- Co-occurring rehabilitation services
- Transitional living services
- Extended residential services
- Community support services
Our work teams replicate real-world work environments where residents can gain trade skills, build confidence, develop accountability, and form positive peer relationships, all while receiving the supportive, individualized treatment needed to learn to manage their mental health symptoms.
Contact Rose Hill Center for Depression Treatment
If you suffer from depression, you are not alone. Like millions of others, you may suffer in silence because of the social stigma attached to asking for help. At Rose Hill Center, we want to help you understand that depression is a highly treatable health condition. Do not let misconceptions prevent you from seeking the help you deserve. Contact Rose Hill Center today at 866.367.0220 for depression treatment.
