Addressing the Stigma:Personal Accounts of Depression

Addressing the Stigma:Personal Accounts of Depression

Introduction: Breaking Down Myths About Mental Health
Depression is a lot more than a sad feeling. It is a severe mental health disorder that impacts millions of people worldwide, including a substantial population in India. While common, stigma and myths frequently inhibit people from getting assistance. Join us as we share personal stories of resilience, highlight actionable strategies to combat stigma, and provide a roadmap for supporting individuals experiencing depression. This guide aims to promote understanding and compassion, and also strives to provide practical steps for action through detailed insights and relatable narratives.

What You Should Know About Depression: Life Isn’t Always a Mood
What Is Depression? Depression is defined as a mental health disorder where one suffers from major mood disturbances that last long, for example, sadness, loss of interest in things that were once loved or enjoyed, and physical symptoms like tiredness, and changes in cravings. It can strike anyone, regardless of age, gender, or social status, its impact exacerbated by societal attitudes.

Common Misconceptions:
Myth: Depression is sadness only.
Fact: Depression is a clinical condition with degrees of emotional, physical and cognitive symptoms. It usually needs professional intervention.
Myth: Depression only happens to weak people.
Fact: Strong, capable, successful people can be depressed. And those who are seemingly successful can be an internal mess.”
Myth: You can get rid of depression with positive thinking.
Fact: Optimism can be helpful, but generally managing depression requires therapy, medication or a combination of therapies tailored to the individual.
Individual Paths: Narratives of Perseverance

Ramesh’s Journey: A Farmer of HopeRamesh is a schoolteacher from a small village in Tamil Nadu who silently struggled with depression. His community lacked mental health resources and he had feared the stigma of asking for help. Finally, with support from a local NGO, he had access to counseling services and began his road to recovery. Now, Ramesh stands as a psychological counselor in his village, urging people to understand the importance of seeking help. His story shows how grass-roots movements can change communities.

Priya’s Urban ExperienceIn crowded Mumbai, Priya, a young marketing professional, felt an overwhelming feeling of isolation despite always being surrounded by people. She spoke to a trusted friend, sought therapy and joined a support group. Priya’s journey is a testament to the power of peer support and to the increasing normalization of seeking mental health care in urban contexts. Her proactive steps show how asking for help can lead you to healing and empowerment.
Sameer’s Struggle: A Clash of Societal ExpectationsSameer, a well-earning software engineer based in Bengaluru, was constantly bombarded with societal and familial pressures. He used to struggle with depression from the continuous pressure for perfection. Therapy and mindfulness practices helped him find balance. Sameer uses his platform to speak about mental health, breaking the stigma of men being vulnerable.
Answers to break down the stigma acerca of mental illness atá

Learn and Share KnowledgeThe key to breaking stigmas is understanding depression and the effects it has. Use social media, community discussions or workshops to share verified information. Check trusted sources (WHO or India’s Ministry of Health) for the right data.
Make Space for Open ConversationsProvide safe spaces where people can talk about mental health without fear of being judged. For instance, start mental health awareness campaigns in schools, workplaces, or religious organizations.
Foster open conversations that reduce stigma around asking for help
Advocate for Accessibility Advocate for affordable and accessible mental health care services in underserved areas. Back initiatives like India’s National Mental Health Program (NMHP) and advocate for mental health initiatives to receive better funding.


Celebrate Success Stories Focus on stories of people going through depression. Their journeys may also inspire others to seek help and offer hope that recovery is achievable.
Normalize Help-Seeking Behavior Focus on the importance of therapy and counseling as tools of self-care, rather than indications of weakness. Write some testimonials from people who have benefited from getting professional help.
Depression Support Systems: Helping Someone You Love

Recognize the Signs
Persistent sadness
Pulled away from social things
Changes in sleep patterns
Lack of energy or
Offer Support
Listen without judgment.
Allay the fears and acknowledge their feelings.
Encourage them to get professional help, and stress that it’s a sign of strength.
Don’t Use Harmful PhrasesStatements like “Just snap out of it” or “Think positive” can diminish and cause pain. Offer validation and empathy instead.
Be PatientRecovery is not instant. Be there for them throughout their journey, even on the rough days. Recognise small wins to motivate progress to continue.
Participate in Joint ActivitiesDo things that are fun or relaxing together, such as going for walks, engaging in hobbies or meditating.
Government and Society as Two-Natured Consumers


Community InitiativesGrassroots initiatives such as social awareness drives in rural areas play a critical role. The MINDS Foundation and other organizations engage to provide mental health related education and services in India. Partnering with local leaders can maximize their effectiveness.
Policy InterventionsPolicies such as India’s Mental Healthcare Act 2017 seek to provide people the right to cost-effective mental health treatment. Raising awareness about these rights and holding powerful people accountable for implementing them is critical to systemic change.
Wellness Programs in the WorkplaceWhen there are mental health resources available in the workplace (e.g., Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), mental health workshops), the reduction of stigma and improved productivity is significant.
Harnessing TechnologyTelemedicine and mental health apps have brought therapy to more people. Increasing usage of platforms such as Wysa or YourDOST can also cover the gaps in mental health care.
Actionable Steps for Readers

Learn and ShareLearn about depression and share resources with friends and family. Knowledge is the first step toward dismantling stigma.
Contact UsIf you or someone you know is in distress, do not hesitate to seek help. In India, you can reach out to iCall, AASRA, and Snehi for confidential support.
Get InvolvedSign up for mental health campaigns, webinars or community discussion to help promote awareness. Leverage social media to magnify trusted messages.
Practice Self-CareTaking care of your mental health is equally important to your physical health. Either add practices such as meditation, journaling, or daily exercise into your routine.
Volunteer or DonateDonate to mental health organizations or volunteer your time to help raise awareness.