Mental Health Myths vs. Facts

Myths and Facts About Mental Illness

Myth: Mental illness is rare and doesn’t affect many people.

Fact: Although the stigma regarding mental illness is decreasing, there is still a lack of open dialogue that perpetuates the myth that mental illness is rare.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, more than one in five adults in the United States are living with mental illness. Children and adolescents can also develop these issues, with approximately 20% of children under 18 years of age experiencing a mental disorder. Additionally, mental illness can be episodic, and some people may experience extended periods of wellness followed by bouts of unwellness.

Myth: If someone with a mental health condition isn’t getting counseling, taking their medication, or trying to obtain help, they don’t want to change.

Fact: People suffering from certain types of mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia or specific forms of bipolar disorder, may experience anosognosia, which is the inability to recognize their neurological or psychiatric condition. This makes it difficult for them to change because they may not even realize they are sick.

This can be a frustrating situation for loved ones, and sometimes, it becomes necessary for them to seek legal action to help get their family member the help they need. However, just because someone isn’t actively seeking help does not mean they are intentionally trying to avoid getting better.

Myth: You only need to worry about mental health if you are diagnosed with a mental health condition.

Fact: This is a common misconception about mental illness. Even if you don’t receive a clinical diagnosis, mental health exists on a spectrum, and everyone can benefit from improving their mental health.

Stressful life events can take a toll on you emotionally. During these events, you may need to focus more on your mental well-being. When difficulties occur, it’s best to address them early on to prevent anxiety or depression from taking hold. By being proactive with your mental health needs and understanding the importance of self-care, you can safeguard your psychological well-being.

Myth: You can only get post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) if you’re in the military.

Fact: Although the prevalence of PTSD is higher among those who have served in the military, anyone can develop this condition. Sexual assault, domestic violence, and accident survivors may all develop PTSD. In fact, witnessing or providing care for someone else who has survived a traumatic experience can result in secondary post-traumatic stress, even if you didn’t experience the event yourself.

The fact is anyone can develop PTSD. Fortunately, it is highly treatable with professional help.

Myth: With enough willpower, you can make your mental illness disappear.

Fact: This common misconception is still widely held by many, and the idea that you can “pull yourself up by the bootstraps” and get better on your own is not true and is harmful to people struggling with mental illness.

No amount of willpower or mental toughness can make mental illness disappear. It is not a character flaw to seek therapy so you can feel better. Many factors precipitate mental illness, including:

• Neurological issues
• Loneliness
• Mental or physical trauma
• Genetic predisposition
• Chemical imbalances in the brain
• Chronic physical illness
• Alcohol and drug abuse

Additionally, not all mental health issues can be treated in the same manner. While some people may feel better with talk therapy, others may also need medication to manage their symptoms, and some may require intensive treatment to get to the root of their mental illness.

Myth: Those with mental illness are more likely to commit violent crimes.

Fact: The idea that people with mental illness are more prone to violence is a persistent myth that many people falsely believe; the majority of people living with mental illness are not violent. Those who are diagnosed with a mental illness are more likely to become the victim of a violent crime.

If violence does occur, it is likely due to background factors such as a history of abuse, substance use, or living in dangerous conditions.

Why Are There Myths About Mental Health?

There are several reasons why so many myths about mental health continue to exist.

• Media coverage often sensationalizes extreme cases of violence and mental illness and also perpetuates the stigma associated with particular disorders.
• Negative stereotypes about individuals with mental illness being scary or dangerous make it difficult to seek help.
• Much of the public is uneducated about mental illness, its causes, and treatment options.

For these reasons, some people who need professional help to overcome their mental illness may never seek care.

What You Can Do

Fear, stigma, and a lack of understanding are the main drivers of myths surrounding mental illness. However, separating the myths and facts of mental illness can reduce the stigma and make it easier for those who need treatment to receive the help they need.

Knowing the facts about mental health can help you raise awareness and educate others so that they are better informed.

Another way to dispel these myths is to talk openly about your personal experiences with mental health to reduce the shame and stigma of reaching out.

Finally, don’t be afraid to encourage others to seek help if they are struggling with challenges of their own. By becoming more open and talking about mental illness, you can take a stand and help change the myths surrounding mental health.