Sorting Out Misconceptions about Mental Health: Myths vs. Facts

Myth: Mental health issues don’t affect that many people. Do people really need to get help?

Fact:  Actually, mental illness is a very prevalent concern that affects individuals and the families that care about them. According to the NIMH (National Institute of Mental Health), more than 1 in 5 U.S. adults live with a mental illness. Concerns such as anxiety and depression are often undiagnosed, making it harder for people to connect with the mental health services they need. People tend to seek out therapy services only when their daily lives become truly overwhelming and hard to manage.

Myth: People with mental health needs can’t remain employed or enjoy life.

Fact: People who are being successfully treated and receive support for their mental health challenges can get better. They can hold jobs, maintain friendships, and contribute to society. Sadly, the idea that mental illness means that a person is “less than” continue. With support, many people with mental health concerns can experience fulfilling, happy lives.

Myth: People with mental health issues are weak and flawed.

Fact: Mental health challenges do not mean that a person’s character is flawed. It also does not mean that a person is lazy. A person managing a mental health disorder does not choo un y  se to have it. With support and mental health treatment, people can get better. It takes a strong person to decide to begin therapy in order to improve their lives.

Myth: People with mental health problems can choose to get better on their own. They just need to be determined and work hard to get over it.

Fact: People with mental health conditions often benefit from therapy and may not be able to solve their problems alone. They might already have risk factors for developing a mental disorder such as a family history of mental health troubles, trauma, and certain biological traits. They also may experience life stressors that increase their risk of mental illness, such as poverty, limited access to mental health services, violence, or family conflict. Partnering with a compassionate, skilled therapist can help people get the support they need to feel better.

Myth: Only adults have mental health disorders, not children or teens. As long as they have a loving family, things should work out and they will be fine.

Fact: According to SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration), 50% of mental health disorders show their early signs before the age of 14. Therapists who work with children and adolescents can have a truly powerful and positive impact. They can help young people work through issues specific to them, such as managing school anxiety, coping with stressful family environments, and managing their social lives. Early intervention can help children and adolescents stay on track and be more able to meet developmental milestones.

Myth: Most people who feel down or nervous don’t need to see a therapist. It’s normal to feel that way.

Fact: Feeling sad or scared from time to time is normal. Yet when symptoms of anxiety or depression develop and last more than two weeks, seeking therapy can be an important step in feeling better. Therapy can help people identify and work through the issues that are making it hard to work, cope, maintain relationships, or find hope for the future. Seeking mental health support before life becomes overwhelming can be an important step in getting better and enjoying life again.

Myth: People with addictions are morally weak. They don’t have will power. If they did they wouldn’t use.

Fact: Addiction is a complex, treatable disease. People suffering with addiction are mistakenly characterized as people who could make an “easy” choice to not abuse substances  —  but do anyway. Shaming individuals does not help them heal or stop using.

Casting blame just creates more stigma and makes the person feel that they have failed.  Therapists specialized in working with addiction offer a holistic treatment model that addresses the root causes of addiction. Skilled therapists work with individuals, couples, and families to help clients achieve lasting sobriety.

Myth: People with trauma will never feel better. Their memories will always trouble them, so they can’t live a healthy life.

Fact: Many people experience trauma and are able to move past it. However, according to the  National Center for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), seven or eight of 100 people in the U.S. will develop PTSD. They can experience distressing symptoms such as feeling angry, having flashbacks, and avoiding thoughts and feelings related to the trauma.

The good news is that people with PTSD can be treated.They can go on to live full, productive lives. Therapists trained in trauma are skilled at helping people feel whole again.

Resources to Help

NAMI  (National Alliance on Mental Illness)

NIMH (National Institute for Mental Health)

SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration)