There is a lot of misinformation out there when it comes to mental health. I hope I can clear some of that up for you in this post!
Myth 1: People who deal with mental health issues can just “snap out of it”, if only they tried!
Fact: People who struggle with mental health issues are often seen as lazy or weak. when in reality they need help in order to improve their mental health. Asking someone facing mental health issues to get over it is cruel and pointless. You might as well ask someone with a broken leg to “walk it off”. Mental health problems are not an indication of weakness. Actually, people dealing with these problems show an abundance of courage and bravery in facing these issues head-on in therapy.
Myth 2: Once someone is diagnosed with a mental health problem- there is no hope for recovery.
Fact: Research has proven that with the proper treatment, people with mental health problems often make great improvements and are better off than those who did not seek out any form of mental health help.
Myth 3: Just take a pill, why bother even going to therapy in the first place!
Fact: Medication can certainly help in the treatment of different mental health issues. However, it does not replace the meaningful work and progress that can be made from talk therapy. In fact, there is research comparing those who took medication and those who also did talk therapy. In these studies, those who took medication and engaged in talk therapy showed the most improvement.
Myth 4: Mental health problems are not common.
Fact: Actually, in a report about the state of mental health in America, the WHO reports that “In 2019, just prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, 19.86% of adults experienced a mental illness, equivalent to nearly 50 million Americans.”
Myth 5: Asking if someone is suicidal increases the chances of that person committing suicide.
Fact: One of the first things we are trained to do as therapists is to assess someone’s desire to self-harm or harm others. Ask this question in a direct manner. This lets that person know that you are someone who cares about them enough to inquire about their mental health.
Myth 6: A person can’t suddenly develop a mental health problem – you’re just born with it!
Fact: Factors that have an impact on a person’s mental status are not limited to genetics but also encompass a multitude of factors, such as childhood experiences, medical conditions developed over time, personality types, and socioeconomic status— factors that are largely out of a person’s control.
Myth 7: Poor mental health will not affect overall physical health and is not as important as one’s physical health.
Fact: We are often taught to take care of our bodies because it is the only vessel we are given to navigate this world. Well, our minds are also just as, if not more, important a vessel to take care of. In fact, research over the years has shown that poor mental health increases the risk of long-lasting physical conditions. These conditions include high blood pressure, stroke, heart disease, and some cancers.
If you’d like to address some myths about mental health with a therapist or counselor, please contact us for your free 15-minute consultation.
My goal is to provide a safe and welcoming place for you as you take steps to improve your life and find your own path towards fulfillment and satisfaction. Call or message today to schedule your free phone consultation or arrange your first appointment.