Mental Disorders And The United States - 1370 Words

Many people completely misunderstand mental disorders and don’t bother trying to correct mistakes made by themselves or others. Depression is no exception. Although it is one of the most common mental disorders categorized in the United States, how is it still such an issue? Although it is so common many people do not recognize the signs in others due to media portrayal, gender stereotypes, and the many misconceptions about this serious mental disorder. People s moods never stay the same, they change depending on your life s current events. Normal mood variations, such as sadness, euphoria, and anxiety, are time limited and are not usually associated with significant functional impairment. (Boyd, pg. 401) The criteria for a mood†¦show more content†¦Spouses, children, parents, siblings, and friends experience frustration, guilt, and anger when a family member is immobilized and cannot function. It is often hard for others to understand the depth of the mood and how d isabling it can be. (Boyd, pg. 405) It can be difficult to live with a depressed person, and the lack of understanding can even go so far as to lead to abuse. Depression may affect a person s ability to lead productive lives, care for those under their protection, or even care for themselves. The first way to help someone suffering with depression is to recognize when a person might be depressed. People may not realize it, but gender stereotypes can play a large role in people s views of depression. Although women are more likely to get depression, many seem to think that depression is just a woman s disease . However, that s not the case, anybody can be affected. Major depressive disorder is one of the most common mental disorders in the United States. Each year about 6.7% of U.S adults experience major depressive disorder. (Depression) Stereotypes can play a huge role in not noticing depression as a factor for severe mood change in men. A new study suggests that both genders are less likely to view men as being depressed and in need of help from professionals, even if the symptoms are identical to a woman s. It’s a well-known fact that men and women who behave the same way in the exact same situation—whether it’s a job interview, a