Myths & FactsThere are many common misconceptions that fuel stigma and are therefore important to break by learning the actual facts. |
MYTH: Mental illness will not affect me.
FACT: Mental health problems are actually very common, about:
Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States. It accounts for the loss of more than 38,000 American lives each year, more than double the number of lives lost to homicide. Learn more about mental disorders. MYTH: People with mental illness are violent. FACT: The vast majority of people living with mental health conditions are no more violent than anyone else. In fact, people with mental illness themselves are much more likely to be victims of crime. MYTH: Mental illness is a sign of weakness. FACT: Mental illness has nothing to do with personal weakness or laziness. It cannot be cured by positive thinking or willpower. Professional treatment is needed. Many factors contribute to mental health problems, including:
However mental illness can affect anyone, people of all ages, races and income levels. MYTH: People with mental illness will never get better. FACT: Many people recover completely. Even for some people whose mental illness is a lifelong condition, like for instance diabetes, proper treatment enables them to live fulfilling and productive lives, as for people with diabetes. MYTH: Children don't have mental health problems. FACT:Even very young children may show early warning signs of mental health concerns. 50% of all mental health disorders show first signs before a person turns 14, and 75% of mental health disorders begin before age 24. As a matter of fact, 1 in 10 children live with a diagnosable mental illness. Unfortunately, less than 20% of children and adolescents with mental health problems receive treatment they need. MYTH: People with mental health needs, even those who are managing their mental illness, cannot tolerate the stress of holding a job. FACT: People with mental health problems are just as productive as other employees. Employers who hire people with mental health problems report good attendance and punctuality as well as motivation and good work. MYTH: Therapy is a waste of time. Why bother when you can just take a pill? FACT: Treatment for mental health problems varies depending on the individual and symptoms and could include medication, therapy, or both, which has shown to have most positive outcome. Many individuals work with a support system during the healing and recovery process. MYTH: There is nothing I can do for a person with a mental health problem. FACT: Friends and loved ones can make a big difference. Only 38% of adults with diagnosable mental health problems and less than 20% of children and adolescents receive needed treatment. Friends and family can be important influences to help someone get the treatment and services they need and by providing the necessary support. |
See references: National
Institute of Mental Health, Mental Health.gov, Bring
Change 2 mind, Bagalman,
E., &Napili, A. (2013).