Public understanding of mental health has come a long way. Take Simone Biles’s recent Olympic run as an example. A decade ago, she probably would have been shamed for “not being strong enough.” We think it’s really encouraging that instead, athletes and people around the world applauded her for taking her self-care and mental wellbeing seriously.
The work isn’t over, though. There are still some very widespread mental health myths that make it harder to talk about these conditions. In fact, these myths can even prevent people from getting the help that could make a huge difference for them.
We think it’s time for that to change. So we want to dispel the following dangerous mental health myths:
People cause their mental health conditions
Let’s clear up one of the most common mental health myths: that these conditions develop because of something the individual did. That is NOT true. Just like physical health conditions, mental health conditions develop on their own. We wouldn’t say the person made choices that led to them getting cancer, so we need to stop saying that people cause their mental illnesses.
Because life choices and personality traits don’t cause mental illness, these conditions can’t be reversed with a simple choice, too. People can’t simply choose to stop being depressed, having panic attacks, or suffering from PTSD. If they could, they would.
Mental health issues are rare
You almost definitely know someone who is affected by a mental health condition. In fact, half of all Americans will get diagnosed with a mental health problem at some point during their lives. In other words, these health conditions are the most common ones affecting us today.
That makes it extra important to check in with yourself and the people in your life. Pervasive sadness and a loss of interest in things might not just be a slump; it could be depression. Ongoing nervousness and fear that something awful will happen might not be the jitters; it could be anxiety. Take mental wellbeing seriously, and seek treatment when necessary.
You can’t do anything about mental health conditions
This is one of the most dangerous mental health myths because it prevents people from seeking out help. But mental illness is as treatable as it is common.
For most people, effectively treating a mental health problem starts with therapy. This helps the person develop tools for managing their condition. It also means developing a relationship with a mental health professional who can recommend additional steps, like an addiction treatment program or medication.
Like many physical conditions, mental health conditions often require treatment that’s tailored to the individual. It might take some time to find what works best for that specific person, but effective treatment is a likely outcome for people who keep exploring their options.
Public perception might lead you to believe that people with a diagnosed mental illness can’t hold down a job or will be perpetually unstable. That is absolutely untrue. With proper treatment, the vast majority of mental health conditions can be managed on an ongoing basis. And that means the people living with these conditions can lead productive, stable, happy lives.
If you think you or someone you love is living with a mental health condition, don’t let stigma or any of these myths prevent you from seeking help. Our team of therapists is here for you. Contact us today.
