There are misconceptions, mischaracterizations, and stigma that keep people from getting the mental healthcare they may need.
Here are some of the most common myths about mental health, along with the facts that you need to know.
MYTH: Mental Health Issues Are A Sign Of Weakness, Poor Upbringing, Or Low Intelligence
FACT: There are many types of mental illnesses. And just like physical illness, they impact many people at many different ages, regardless of one’s intelligence, integrity, job status, family history, or overall health.
In fact, recognizing that one is struggling with a mental health condition and getting help can show great self-awareness, strength, and courage.
MYTH: Mental Illnesses Are Strange & Uncommon
FACT: Mental health issues are very common in the United States today. In 2020, at least 1 in 5 American adults experienced a mental health condition of some severity, along with 1 in 6 young people.
Serious mental illnesses like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depression, and PTSD are also common, impacting around 1 in 20 Americans in a given year.
MYTH: A Person With A Mental Illness Can ‘Just Snap Out Of It’ If They Want Too
FACT: Mental health conditions can develop due to a wide range of different factors working in concert, including:
- genetics
- brain chemistry
- physical health
- life experiences
Just as none of these factors are entirely within a person’s control, willpower alone is not enough to reverse a mental illness.
Instead, it’s best to work with professionals to address these different facets, improving and managing one’s mental health issues through a formal treatment plan.
MYTH: You Only Need To Take Care Of Your Mental Health If You Have A Mental Disorder
FACT: Living with high levels of stress or pain, substance abuse, or trauma can greatly increase your risk of developing serious mental disorders.
Taking proactive steps to improve your mental health and resilience can lower this risk and help you live a happier and more positive life, no matter who you are.
MYTH: Nothing Can Be Done To Prevent A Person From Developing A Mental Health Condition
FACT: Just as there are many risk factors that increase a person’s chance of developing a mental health disorder, there are many protective factors that greatly reduce the likelihood of certain conditions developing and improve outcomes if they do.
These factors can include building strong social connections, improving stress or emotional management, receiving early treatment and support, practicing healthy habits and self-care, and cultivating a safe and secure environment.
MYTH: Mental Health Isn’t As Big A Deal As People Make It Out To Be
FACT: Left untreated, mental illnesses can have a severe and lasting impact on those who experience them, as well as their families and loved ones.
Mental health issues are strongly associated with severe negative life events including:
- higher levels of illness and pain
- lower productivity and job performance
- stained or failed relationships
- homelessness
- incarceration
- substance use
- self-harm or suicide
MYTH: Those With Mental Health Conditions Are Often Violent
FACT: Those experiencing severe mental illness are 10x more likely to be the victims of violence than the general population.
Only 3-5% of violent acts can be attributed to this population, and the vast majority are no more likely to commit violent crime than anyone else.
MYTH: Only Professionals Can Help Those With Mental Health Conditions
FACT: Therapists, doctors, and other mental health professionals play an important role in mental health treatment. But friends and family members can be just as valuable to those who are struggling.
If you have a friend, sister, brother, cousin, classmate, co-worker, or someone else in your life who is going through a mental health challenge, it is important that you show them love, trust, and support.
This might include:
- reaching out and spending time with them
- including them in conversations
- using person-first language
- listening to them
- encouraging or helping them to access mental health services
- helping them work on skills or keep up with life responsibilities outside of treatment
MYTH: Mental Health Is Not As Big A Concern For Kids & Teenagers
FACT: While all adolescents face hormones and mood changes, young people also increasingly face serious mental health challenges including anxiety disorders, depression, eating disorders, and others.
As much as half of all mental health conditions start by the age of 14, and suicide is the fourth most common cause of death for those aged 15-19.
MYTH: Once Someone Is Diagnosed With A Mental Health Problem, They Never Really Recover
Fact: Mental health concerns are diverse. While some people may face lifelong challenges, most who seek mental treatment significantly improve their condition and may even recover entirely.
Evidence-based treatment options for mental health disorders include:
- psychotherapy
- medication support
- psychosocial support
- peer support
At Northeast Addictions Treatment Center, we offer expert behavioral and mental health services, including outpatient dual diagnosis treatment services for both substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions. Contact us today to learn more.
Keep Reading:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
- World Mental Health Day: Purpose & Participation
- What Is Mental Health Awareness Month?
- How Alcohol & Drug Misuse Affects Mental Health
- How Psychiatrists Treat Drug & Alcohol Addiction
Sources:
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) – Mental Health Myths and Facts
- UNICEF Parenting – Busted: 7 myths about mental health