ABC Radio
Australian Broadcasting Corporation
Nine big myths about depression — busted
Nine big myths about depression — busted
Nine big myths about depression — busted
Saturday 3rd February 2024
Professor Ian Hickie busts common myths about depression, from chemical imbalances to the role of psychedelics, offering a deeper understanding of this complex condition.
30 minutes
Informative
Educational
Supportive
Engaging
Honest
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ABC Radio
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Categories:
Mindfulness & Emotional Wellbeing
Mindful Recovery
Sexual Stigmas & Myths
Mindfulness & Technology in Health
Parenting & Children
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Get the buttons here!Busting Myths About Depression with Professor Ian Hickie
Episode Overview
- Depression is more than just feeling sad; it affects the whole body.
- Genetics account for 30% of depression cases; environment and experiences make up the rest.
- Newer antidepressants like SSRIs are safer and more effective.
- Psychedelics show promise but need more research.
- Understanding the difference between distress and clinical depression is crucial.
Depression isn't just low mood and feeling sad; it's a perturbation, a change in the whole body.
Depression is a topic that's often misunderstood, and this episode of 'All In The Mind' aims to clear up some of the biggest myths surrounding it. Host Sana Khadar chats with Professor Ian Hickie, a seasoned psychiatrist with nearly 40 years of experience, to dissect common misconceptions about depression. They tackle questions like: Is depression really just a chemical imbalance in the brain? Can psychedelics be the magic cure we've been waiting for?
And what's the difference between being depressed and simply distressed? Professor Hickie brings his wealth of knowledge to the table, explaining that depression is much more than just feeling sad or having a low mood. He emphasises that clinical depression involves a complex interplay of genetic, environmental, and physiological factors.
For instance, while 30% of depression cases can be attributed to genetics, the remaining 70% are influenced by current contexts and past experiences, such as chronic stress or significant life events. The episode also debunks the myth that antidepressants lead to suicide, highlighting that newer generation antidepressants like SSRIs are designed to be safer and more effective.
Professor Hickie also touches on the promise and pitfalls of using psychedelics like psilocybin for treatment, stressing the need for more research despite public enthusiasm. By the end of the episode, you'll have a clearer understanding of what depression really is and why it's crucial to differentiate between temporary distress and clinical depression. This is a must-listen for anyone wanting to get to the heart of what depression truly entails and how best to approach its treatment.
So, if you've ever wondered about the true nature of depression or know someone who could benefit from a deeper understanding, this episode offers invaluable insights. Tune in to learn more and challenge your preconceptions about this pervasive mental health issue.