Depression Through the Perception of Balkan Society

Plato taught us about the values of knowledge, and Shakespeare about the consequences when a society rejects the concept of knowledge. Every individual can recognise that knowledge shapes the quality of their life; however, what happens when a collective fears the unknown?

The unknown creates stereotypes, illusions and prejudices. When a connection with the unknown is established, it takes shape as a society identical to the one that condemned Socrates.

What is depression for Balkan society? Has it become a synonym for the negative traits of humanity, or a secret word we do not want to learn?

Many people face unique challenges when it comes to mental health. One of the greatest factors is the pressure to conform to society's expectations.

Studies around the world show that depression, like cardiovascular disease, has become the most common illness of the 21st century. Although depression is one of the most primary and important mental disorders, society has a negative perception of it. Alongside the fear of the unknown, there is also the fear of being judged because of the stigma that rests on this mental illness. When most people think of stigma, they think of negative stereotypes and assumptions about a person or group based on something such as their gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, disability or illness. In the case of depression, these opinions can produce a state of nihilism.

Depression has been present for centuries and can be found in all cultures. However, in certain societies there are various views in which cultural declines and feelings of isolation are present. In some cultures depression is seen as a sign of weakness or laziness, while in others it is viewed as a sign of strength and courage. Next, it is necessary to talk about the socialisation of depression and its consequences in correspondence with various Balkan countries, but also in all social constructs of mental health as a whole.

The idea is not to absorb shaming or glorifying of individuals who experience these feelings, but to shape a clearer picture of depression. Education and the urge for empathy can be the goal of a significant change.

It is necessary to become aware that not everyone feels this way - it is simply the nature of life in an area that is not very liberal or open.

The prevention of depression is a consequence of social stigma against mental illness, rather than of its actual prevalence.