The mind

"The mind", is one of life's great mysteries. We know a quite lot of about how the brain works in mechanical terms; we can look at its cells and get an idea of how the cells "talk" to each other and what happens when there is increased activity in specific parts of the brain. We also know that depression can be treated with medicine and/or therapy provided by a psychologist or psychiatrist.

A great deal of information exists about the brain, but we don't know how or why thoughts or feelings are formed. We don't know why we think. The French philosopher Descartes was responsible for the famous saying "I think, therefore I am", but it is actually more accurate to say "I am conscious, therefore I am."

What is the mind?

We live and exist in our minds. The mind is by far the most important way we perceive our own existence. If a person is unconscious they can not perceive their own existence, which can be observed by others who see a living body.

In a state of unconsciousness brain activity can be measured however the unconscious individual, while living, can not perceive their own existence. In this way, the mind is by far the most important way we perceive our own existence. It is the inner "you". Without the inner "you", you don't exist. We could rewrite Descartes in the following way: "If I am not conscious, I don't exist."

When something goes wrong with the mind

Many of the symptoms of mental illness are thought to arise from changes in the way the brain functions. Some research suggests changes in size or activity in certain areas of the brain during mental illness, or differences in the levels of neurotransmitters (brain chemicals). Some studies suggest a hereditary component, i.e. that certain mental illnesses may be genetic.

These changes in the brain have an impact on the function of the mind so that an individual may find it very difficult to change their mood or behaviour. These changes can make an individual feel like they are no longer themselves. When the mind is affected our inner "being" is compromised and threatened. A threat that can not be escaped and is difficult to rationalise as it comes from within. Differentiating which feelings, emotions, reactions and even physical symptoms are real and what is a consequence of the illness often becomes challenging.

Because of the stigma associated with mental illness some people who become unwell prefer not to tell others about their experiences. Just as it is important to manage stigmas and taboos held by society around depression, it is even more important to address our own stigmas so that the best treatment can be sought.

What do you do now?

We hope that the information available on DepNet helps you to challenge the stigmas regarding depression you may feel. It is possible to overcome personal stigma and taboos by acquiring knowledge about mental illness. Overcoming inner stigma is vital so that you can seek effective treatment. Contacting your GP for an appointment and being honest and open about your experiences is often the best initial step. For others acute emergency intervention may be required in which case contact details are available on this site.

The mystery of the mind lives on; we still have so much to learn. What is important is that you do not need to solve the mystery in order to beat depression.

Tolerance

Unfortunately society is not always tolerant of those who are "different". This may include race, religion or football teams!

There are a number of negative stereotypes of the mentally ill, arising from unusual behaviour in some people when they are unwell. We tend to feel uncomfortable when a person’s behaviour does not conform to ‘normal’ social expectations.

Adults with long term mental health problems are one of the most isolated and generally excluded groups in society. Research has shown that this often leads to a downward spiral of unemployment, poverty, family breakdown, failing health, loss of self worth, loneliness and a sense of hopelessness.

When a perception exists that people who are suffering from depression are "different", those suffering from depression may be afraid to admit they are unwell. It is easier to go to the doctor with an "ordinary" illness than a mental illness. People suffering from depression may go to the doctor complaining of a "physical ailment" rather than openly discussing their mental or emotional symptoms.

The stigma associated with mental illnesses may also prevent family and friends from accepting a diagnosis of depression in those close to them. In the workplace there may be a fear that an individual suffering from depression may not be able to perform their job satisfactorily.

Discrimination against a person on the basis of any disability, physical or mental, is not acceptable in today’s world. We should strive to be more tolerant.