Persistent feelings of hopelessness, mood disturbances, sleep problems, weight gain or loss these are just some of the symptoms that characterize clinical depression. Also known as major-depressive disorder, the condition affects approximately 14 million Americans each year, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).

Despite its prevalence, however, depression is frequently misunderstood. A number of myths surround the disease, from misconceptions about its causes to erroneous ideas about its treatments. And all too often, these beliefs keep patients from getting the treatment they desperately need. Read on to find out the truth behind the most common depression myths.

Myth 1: Depression is a choice, not a serious medical condition.


Reality: Contrary to popular belief, depression is a serious illness that affects patients both mentally and physically. In fact, the World Health Organization recently characterized it as one of the world's most disabling diseases, estimating that it takes a greater toll on overall health than angina, arthritis, asthma, and diabetes.

Myth 2: Depression is just a normal reaction to life events.


Reality: Although everyone feels down from time to time, depression is far more than a short-lived reaction to upsetting events. CAT scans have confirmed that sufferers have decreased activity in some areas of their brains. What's more, depression can last for a lifetime and even lead to suicide. For some patients, disappointing events may serve as a trigger, but the condition itself is rooted in biological and genetic causes.

Myth 3: Depression is a sign of personal weakness or laziness.


Reality: There's no scientific research to support the notion that depressed people are weak, lazy, or looking for sympathy. In fact, some of history's most powerful and dynamic figures including Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt, and Winston Churchill struggled with the disease. Along these same lines, experts agree that sufferers can't just will the disease away.

Myth 4: As we age, depression is virtually inevitable.


Reality: Although seniors have higher rates of depression and suicide than other segments of the U.S. population, experts maintain that the disease is not a normal part of aging. Similarly, depression among children and teenagers is not just a normal part of growing up. If you suspect that you or a loved one may be depressed, contact a mental-health professional as soon as possible, regardless the age of the sufferer.

Myth 5: Depression is solely determined by your genes.


Reality: Studies have established a link between genetics and depression, but just because your family member suffers from the disease, that doesn't mean you will. Experts do, however, note that a genetic predisposition could put you at a higher risk. For this reason, those with a family history of depression should be especially mindful about seeking help if they suspect they may be suffering from the disease.

Myth 6: Depression usually goes away by itself.


Reality: One the most dangerous myths of all, depression doesn't usually go away on its own. In certain cases, symptoms may temporarily subside, but most of the time, the condition persists and/or gets worse without treatment. And once a person has suffered through one bout of depression, he or she is at a higher risk for recurrence.

Myth 7: Talking about depression just makes it worse.


Reality: On the contrary, talking about your feelings is an important step in the treatment process. When sufferers neglect to do this, they often become socially isolated, which only makes depression worse. Experts encourage patients to open up to trusted friends, family members, and most important, a mental-health professional, all of whom can provide much-needed support and encouragement.

Myth 8: Postpartum depression means you're a bad mother.


Reality: A diagnosis of postpartum depression (PPD) in no way suggests that sufferers are bad mothers who don't love their children. Instead, PPD is linked to the rapid hormonal fluctuations that take place during pregnancy and extreme drops in estrogen and progesterone levels after delivery. In addition, changes in thyroid levels, metabolism, blood pressure, and immune-system functioning can play a role.

Myth 9: Antidepressant drugs change your personality.


Reality: Although antidepressants may alter how you feel and act in certain situations, they do not change your core beliefs, your intellect, or your basic personality traits. When taking antidepressants, you may act more social, for example, but this is generally caused by the feelings of relaxation brought about by the medication not by a direct effect of the drugs on your brain chemistry. If you are experiencing adverse effects on these medications, it's important to contact your doctor as soon as possible.

Myth 10: Depression is untreatable.


Reality: Far from it even in the most severe cases, depression is a highly treatable disorder, according to the NIMH. An estimated 85 percent of depression patients recover when treated with antidepressant medications, psychotherapy, and/or electroconvulsive therapy. And as with most illnesses, experts stress that the earlier treatment begins, the more effective it will most likely be.