5 Myths About Mental Health
5 MINUTE READ • MENTAL HEALTH
Mental health is just as important as your physical health, yet many people live through mental health needs silently. One in four young adults is experiencing some mental health condition while one in ten will experience the symptoms of depression. Similar statistics for every possible area of mental health paint a sobering picture: people have a lot of stuff going on. Sadly, young adults are less likely than those older than 25 to engage in services or support while going through this stuff. Lack of access to care, limited scheduling options, and the financial burden makes holistic mental and physical healthcare difficult to access for this group.
The perpetuation of these 5 common myths continues to discourage many from seeking the support they need.
Myth 1: Children and teens don’t experience mental health concerns
In fact, children and teens are often forced to cope with unseen circumstances without support. In reality, 1 in 4 young adults is living with mental illness.
Myth 2: People with mental health concerns have flaws or are weak.
In fact, mental health needs can arise for anyone. Factors such as genetics, upbringing, relationships, and life experiences can play a role in the development of symptoms.
Myth 3: Therapy, medication, or treatment won’t work.
In reality, present-day science-based treatment of mental health concerns has astonishing results that have never been seen before. Mental health treatment is scientifically researched to ensure that it works for all groups of people.
Myth 4: "People like me” or "______ people don’t have those types of concerns."
Race, religion, gender, etc. do not make someone immune from the difficulties of life. In reality, anyone can experience need.
Myth 5: “It is what it is.”
We all have a tendency to tell ourselves that our circumstance or situation is out of our control or beyond the point of change. The truth is, it doesn’t have to be that way. Changing things is possible and minimizing is rarely a successful long-term strategy.
Whether you’re experiencing a mental health crisis or not, remember that the language we use when talking about mental health is very important. The easiest way to limit the stigma people feel is to communicate with respect and dignity. You can do this by:
Using person-first language. Ex. “Sally is living with depression” as opposed to “Sally is depressed.”
Avoid casual use of words like manic, schizo, psycho, bipolar, or crazy. This can really hurt those who are living with mental illness.
Dispel the mental health myths you see in your daily life and create a safe space for others to express their struggles. Mental health treatments, including talk therapy, medication, or more structured treatments are effective and can help.
If you or someone you know is currently experiencing a mental health need, please contact your mentor to set up an appointment with a member of the clinical team. All of our conversations are completely confidential and assistance is available. If you are in immediate need or feel like it may be difficult to keep yourself or someone safe, call: 800-273-8255