In any given year, 1 in 5 adults struggle with a mental health disorder in the United States. This corresponds to 43.8 million people or 18.5 percent of the total population. Yet millions of people are stigmatized, discriminated against, and isolated by their families, friends, and even employers due to widespread myths surrounding mental health. This can make it difficult for someone with a mental illness to recover. Therefore, dispelling such myths and providing help to those dealing with a mental health disorder is imperative, as early diagnosis and intervention can help a person fully recover and lead a normal life.
Read on to find out if certain things that are believed about mental health are myths or not.
- Myth – Mental illnesses are rare.
done – Mental health conditions are more common than one can imagine. With 1 in 5 people affected by it, 1 in 25 of those affected receive a diagnosis of a serious mental disorder affecting life function in any given year. It can affect anyone regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, race, religion, and/or income level.
- Myth – A mental disorder is a consequence of a bad upbringing.
done – Mental illnesses are not the result of poor child care practices. It is a common condition that affects 1 in 5 adolescents and young adults. Mental health is affected by genetics, environmental factors, trauma, and much more.
- Myth – People claim to have a mental illness.
done – No one chooses to have a physical illness. Similarly, no one chooses to have a disease like this. The causes behind this are thoroughly investigated and are genuine. Sometimes the symptoms of this may not be visible, however that does not mean that someone’s condition is not real.
- Myth – Mental health disorders are the result of personal weaknesses.
done – Like any other major physical illness, mental health is also not the result of a person’s character or personal weaknesses. It is caused by genetics, environmental factors, and lifestyle choices. A stressful marriage, working conditions, or strained relationships can make some people more susceptible to this. Biochemical processes, faulty circuitry, and brain structure may also contribute. Long-term use of alcohol or drugs also leads to the development of mental illness.
- Myth – You’re just sad, not depressed.
done – Depression is not something that a person can simply get rid of. People often tell the depressed to cheer up or shake it off. However, it is not only the blues that can disappear. It is a serious mental health disorder that requires medication and therapy for proper management.
- Myth – Medications will help, you do not need therapy.
done – People with mental illnesses have different treatment requirements. They cannot be treated with a one-size-fits-all approach. The treatment plan for mental disorders should be customized to fit a person’s medical history and requirements. People generally benefit from a combination of medication, therapy, and self-care. One should speak with a mental health counselor to learn about their options.
- Myth – People with mental disorders cannot handle school or work.
done – Managing stressful situations can be challenging for all people, not just those living with mental illness. However, people with mental illness have jobs, go to school and lead active lives in their communities. And if they are under treatment, they are usually seen to be fine.
- Myth – People with mental disorders are dangerous and violent.
done – Research has shown that people diagnosed with a mental illness are subject to violence and crime rather than being violent themselves. The onset of a mental illness is associated with an increased risk of being subjected to violent and non-violent crimes.
- Myth – Only positive thoughts and prayer can cure a mental illness.
done – Prayer, positive thinking and spirituality can be used as effective tools for recovery, however, these are not the only tools. Lifelong recovery can be ensured by integrating these tools with proper medication, therapy, and self-care. For this, one should speak to a licensed mental health therapist or seek treatment at a residential mental health treatment center, if the condition is severe.
- Myth – People with mental illnesses should stay in institutions.
done – People with severe mental illness or psychosis need to be institutionalized. The rest can stay in an inpatient mental health treatment facility during the time period of their treatment. With the advancement of medical science, it is now possible for people to live with their families, get a job, have a social life, and live well, while still undergoing treatment. A certified mental health therapist can diagnose the severity of the condition and help determine your options.
Seeking help for mental disorders
Mental illnesses are real and, if left untreated, can affect any and all areas of life. They can affect school or work performance, relationships, and can also cause suicidal ideation. In general, these problems worsen the quality of life. Therefore, it is important to receive early diagnosis and treatment.