10 mental health myths proven wrong

The stigma attached to mental illness is now referred to as "sanism." It is a sort of oppression and prejudice, similar to racism and sexism. And there is still a great deal of sanism and misunderstanding about mental illness in our society.

Dispelling mental health myths can help eliminate the stigma and create a culture that encourages individuals of all ages to seek help when they need it. Here are 10 common misconceptions about mental health:

Myth 1: Mental illnesses are not common

Fact: Mental health problems are very common. In any given year, about 1 out of every 7 people worldwide will suffer from a mental health problem. In the US, one out of every 25 people suffers from a major mental illness, some of them are anxiety, serious depression, bipolar illness, and schizophrenia.

Myth 2: People can get mental illnesses at birth

Fact: While some psychological diseases, such as bipolar mood disorder, have a genetic link and are inheritable, a person's chances of having a mental illness are influenced by a combination of genetics and their overall environment.

Stress, grief, marital breakdown, unemployment, social isolation, a significant physical disease, physical and sexual abuse, or disability are some of these factors.

Myth 3: Children and teenagers are immune to mental illness

Fact: According to studies, one out of every five youngsters has or will have a mental condition. The first signs of a mental health problem appeared in 50% of people before the age of 14. These issues are not caused by poor parenting. They are the result of a variety of factors. Many of these factors are beyond the control of the child or the parents. Negative childhood experiences can lead to mental health problems in teenagers and adulthood.

Myth 4: People who suffer from mental illnesses are violent or dangerous

Fact: Some of the most harmful stereotypes about people with mental illnesses are based on this false perception. Mentally sick people are almost never harmful. Only around 7% of violent acts are done by people who have mental disorder symptoms. In fact, those who suffer from major mental illnesses are 10 times more likely to be victims of violence.

Myth 5: Only weak people have mental health problems

Fact: Mental illness is not a flaw in someone's character. Mental health and mental strength are two distinct terms, just as even the world's strongest weightlifter can get sick with the flu. You are not weak if you require help with a mental health problem. Seeking and accepting assistance is a sign of strength and resilience. Mental health is influenced by a various elements, including:

• Your DNA or the chemistry of your brain. The same is true for any disease or injury you may get.

• Your mental health is shaped by your life experiences. This can involve experiencing a traumatic experience or having a high-stress career or home life.

• Your mental health is influenced by your family history. Having a parent with a mental illness may increase your chances of developing one yourself.

Myth 6: Mental illness is permanent and incurable

Fact: Mental health does not stay unchanged. Over the course of your life, it rises and falls. Many factors might have an impact on how you feel. Most patients recover completely and have no more episodes of disease with the right kind of help.

Others may experience recurrent mental illness throughout their lifetimes, requiring ongoing therapy. The same goes for many physical disorders, such as diabetes and heart disease. Mental illness, like these other long-term health disorders, can be controlled so that people can live their lives to the fullest.

Myth 7: Therapy is useless

Fact: Some people are hesitant about going to therapy. They are worried that they will be forced to return to their childhoods. Modern therapy, on the other hand, is designed to be quick. It concentrates on issues and solutions. It has been found in studies to be particularly beneficial in the treatment of mental disorders. When taken in combination with medicine, it is usually the most effective.

Myth 8: There's nothing we can do to help someone suffering from mental illness

Fact: There are many ways to help someone:

• Make them aware that you are available if they need help.

• Support them in finding the mental health resources they need.

• Know what they're going through.

• They should be treated with respect. Don't refer to them as "crazy."

• Show your support in a way that they can understand.

• Don't abandon them.

• Get help yourself if you need it.

Myth 9: You can’t prevent mental illness

Fact: You can't always avoid mental health issues. However, you or a loved one can address the following risk factors:

• Avoid exposure to trauma. If you or a loved one has been through a traumatic situation, seek help as soon as possible. Early therapy can help you avoid more serious issues in the future.

• Reduce your stress levels. A stressful job or home life might have a negative impact on your mental health.

• Make healthy behaviors a priority. Eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and get plenty of rest. These simple self-care techniques can make a significant difference in how you feel about yourself and how you function.

Myth 10: Mentally ill people can 'get themselves out of it'

Personal weakness does not produce mental disease, and personal strength does not 'cure' it. Without adequate treatment, mental illness rarely goes away on its own. Although the symptoms of a psychological issue can range from minor to severe, most mental illnesses will persist without therapy.