We continue the #Mentalhealthweekawareness series with a much-needed list of mental health myths. Let’s bust some myths!
This list has been inspired by Time To Change.
1. Mental health problems are rare
Definitely not true. Anyone can experience mental health problems (mhp) like anxiety or depression at some point in their life. In fact, 1 in 4 people will experience mhp.
2. Young people don’t suffer from mhp
You might hear some people say that young people struggle with hormonal ups and downs and not mhp. That is so not true. 1 in 8 young people will suffer from mhp and it’s important to help them navigate the change.
3. People who experience mhp do not recover
Although some mental health issues can be chronic, most are not. Our mental health can be affected by our current situation and the environment. Most people can recover and go on to live a happy and fulfilling life.
4. You can see if someone has mhp
Again, not true. You can’t just look at someone and know they are struggling with mhp. Most people try to continue with their daily lives. Some people have to continue to care for their family. Some others are good at putting on a ‘strong front’. So, no, you can’t tell by just looking at someone. The best thing to do is ask.
5. I can’t do anything to help someone with a mhp
There are lots of things you can do! For example: check in with them, listen without judging and become an ally, help remove the stigma from mental health problems.
I hope that this list of mental health myths has been helpful to you – feel free to share it!
Always be kind to people, you don’t know what they’re going through. And remember to be kind to yourself too!
If you are struggling, I have put together a list of resources about therapy.