Tags – Misconceptions about Mental Health
Whilst awareness is increasing for sure, there are still many common misconceptions around the subject of mental health.
People from all walks of life still don’t fully understand and are often fearful.
Consequently, this ignorance contributes to the stigma those suffering with mental health issues still experience today.
As such, it’s crucial that we educate ourselves, and others, about the myths surrounding mental health. As a result, we will have increased empathy and this will help those suffering feel more able to seek support.
Here are 7 misconceptions and the facts behind them.
‘Mental health issues aren’t that common’
1 in 4 people experience a mental health issue at some point in their life.
Therefore, the chances are that you currently know someone suffering with mental illness.
‘Having a mental disorder means you’re mad’
Having a mental disorder means you have an illness, not any sort of insanity.
As such, it manifests itself just as a physical illness does, needing treatment and not defining you.
‘Young people don’t suffer from mental illness. It’s just normal teenage life’
According to the NHS, 1 in 8 young people experience a mental health problem.
Consequently, with bullying, body image issues and abuse all being high on the agenda, young people need our support. Charity, Young Minds offer great advice and tips.
‘I can’t help anybody with a mental health issue’
You can do lots to support someone struggling with a mental health issue.
For example, check in with them regularly and listen to what they say. Equally, don’t start treating them any differently from beforehand.
‘People with a mental health problem aren’t able to work’
People with a mental health problem can often mask it successfully.
Therefore, many who hold down very successful jobs may well be suffering from mental illness.
‘People with mental disorders are usually violent’
It is totally unfounded that those with mental disorders are violent.
Conversely, it’s often the case that they have actually been the victim of violence.
‘People with mental health problems are lazy and need to pull themselves together’
Probably the worst misconception is that someone suffering from mental illness can control it or are in some way, ‘milking it’.
For example, even the strongest of characters can struggle with issues and will need support to recover.
Whether that support is medication, counselling or support from friends and family, it’s not something that they can just snap out of, at will.
To learn more, get in touch with us today.
In the meantime, please check our court of protection services.