MORE THAN LEARNING WE NEED TO DO SOME UNLEARNING
Misunderstanding about mental diseases prevents many people from getting the help they need. Stigma – Shame associated with the need for mental health support – can be very dangerous. Given that the level of anxiety, depression, and other mental health disorders increases, sustainable stigma causes people to suffer in silence without the need. Here are some of the most common myths and mental health facts.
Myth #1: Not normal to fight.
The old misunderstanding about mental disease is that it is not normal to feel bad. But the mental health struggle is a normal part of the human condition. Part of violating mental health stigma openly discusses the fact that many people will need mental health support at several points in their lives. In the World Health Organization (WHO) survey, around 50 percent of participants were diagnosed with mental health diseases at several points in their lives. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 1 in 5 Americans will experience mental disease in a certain year, even if the symptoms are not severe.
Myth #2: Mental health struggle is inevitable, so there is nothing you can do.
Although normal to fight, you don’t have to suffer. If you find symptoms make you not fulfill your goals or function in everyday life, there is an effective solution. For some people, professional mental health care is part of the solution. For others, self -care and coping skills can bring relief. The most important thing is that you feel empowered to do something to support your mental health.
Myth #3: People must be able to deal with their own mental health problems.
If you break your feet, no one expects you to get rid of pain. Just like you will look for treatment from a doctor for physical illness, you must have the same hope regarding receiving treatment for mental health problems. You may feel you have to deal with your own mental health problems. In fact, there is a lot of support to help you feel better.
Here are some signs that you might benefit from professional mental health support:
You experience stress, anxiety, or prolonged depression.
You feel irritable, anger, anxiety, or sadness.
You have experienced a decrease in work performance.
You withdraw from relationships or have relationships.
You experience a decrease in motivation and/or difficulty concentrating.
The use of alcohol or other drugs has increased.
Myth #4: People with Strong Support Networks Don’t Need Therapy.
The therapist provides a different level of support from friends or family. Both contribute to positive mental health, but in different ways. Professional mental health support is:
Confidential – People feel more at ease opening up to a mental health professional because they are bound by privacy laws.
The purpose of the therapist is to listen attentively and offer tools and strategies to help you feel better. There is no risk of them judging you, taking sides, or using information against you.
Skilled – Counselors, Therapists, and Mental Health Coaches have specialized training and tailor treatment to your needs. Many use therapies that have been proven effective in research.
Myth #5: Mental Health Disorders are a sign of weakness or lack of willpower.
This myth about mental illness is one of the most damaging. Mental Disorders are medical conditions, just like diabetes, heart disease, and other physical health problems. They are caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, environment, and life experiences like trauma. Managing a Mental Health Disorder Requires Strength and Resilience. Fortunately, this mental health myth is gradually disappearing as awareness of mental illness grows.