Mental health is a topic that has been growing within society. However, there are still misunderstandings about mental wellness that end up being a barrier rather than a support for anyone who may seek guidance or help. To break this pattern, it’s necessary to bust common myths and misconceptions regarding mental health.
1. “Mental health problems are uncommon”
It’s wrong to think that only certain people have mental health issues. According to World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 450 million people worldwide are experiencing a mental or neurological disorder.
There can be several things that lead to problems with your mental wellbeing, such as biological factors (ex. chemical imbalances) or even life experiences (ex. continuous stressful situations).
This misconception comes from the difficulties in spotting the effects of mental health issues, attributing these conditions to someone who’s “having a bad day” or fearing being defined as a certain type of person.
Mental health issues work the same as physical illnesses or injuries. Nobody is immune to them. Some of the most common mental health disorders include anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Mental illness, like physical illness, can affect anyone regardless of intelligence, social class, or income level.
2. “Those living with a mental health disorder are unable to work”
People with mental health problems are just as productive as other workers. Mental Health First Aid stated that a study found that 54.5% of individuals with a severe mental health condition were employed, compared to 75.9% of people without a mental illness.
Furthermore, it’s been reported by employers who hire people with mental health problems that the latter have demonstrated good attendance, punctuality, good work, and job tenure on par with or greater than other employees.
3. “Mental health problems are signs of weakness”
Mental health has nothing to do with weakness or lack of willpower. It’s not a condition that one chooses to have or not have. When someone’s suffering from mental health issues, it’s not because that person is lazy or ‘not putting enough effort to snap out of it.’
On the contrary. Unicef declares that recognizing a mental disorder and the need to accept help requires great strength and courage. Moreover, Therapy For You pointed out that there’s a big difference between mental strength and mental health.
For example, somebody with depression is often showing incredible mental strength to get through the day while experiencing a lack of clarity, tiredness, sleep deprivation, and negative thoughts.
4. “Nothing can be done to prevent developing mental health conditions”
Many aspects can help people prevent mental health problems. Some of these could be strengthening social and emotional skills, seeking help and support early on, developing supportive family relationships, having a positive school or work environment, and healthy sleep patterns.
Not all mental health problems are indeed preventable. Yet, anyone can improve their mental health by establishing beneficial habits.
Also, it’s important to identify how you’re feeling and speak to a professional therapist when you’re struggling with coping with mental health issues.
5. “You can’t help someone with a mental health problem”
People with mental health problems can get better and recover with the proper help. And family, friends, and loved ones can make a big difference.
Understanding the way someone else is feeling isn’t easy. It doesn’t mean that you have to partake in the role of a therapist, for that’s an aspect that should be taken by a professional.
Still, simple acts from family and friends can make a difference. Such as:
6. “Therapy isn’t necessary”
Are you familiar with phrases like ‘why bother with therapy,’ ‘my problems aren’t important enough for treatment,’ or ‘therapy and self-help are a waste of time and money’?
Treatment for mental health problems varies depending on each one. This could include therapy, medication, or even both. Yet, many people live with a mental health issue for years before they feel they need help from a professional.
It’s okay to be nervous about opening up about your problems— after all, the concept of therapy has not yet been normalized within society. Still, by assuming your problems don’t require professional treatment, you could be worsening your mental health situation.
Luckily, therapists can work with you one step at a time and guide you to better mental wellbeing. And, if you’re not ready to speak in person, there are phone and online text-based therapies available.
Regarding the cost aspect, why not see therapy as an investment for your well-being? The value of your mental health outweighs any price tag or period. However, not everyone can afford the expense of private care.
Fortunately, there are free services that offer professional support. You can search to seek help from therapists who are in your area. Plus, there’s even the possibility of online sessions no matter where you are.
People with mental health problems can get better. Some can even recover completely. And helping to share the right information allows us to build a society where anyone can receive support.
If we can address physical affliction, let’s say a stomach ache, and that we need to get it treated, why shouldn’t it be the same with some mental health-related condition?
Photos from Pixabay and PxHere
