LEARN THE BASICS
MAY 2022
Busting mental health myths
Can you tell the difference between a mental health myth and a fact? Read on to learn the truth about the most common misconceptions about mental health.
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Myth: Mental health issues don’t affect me or anyone I know.
Fact: Mental health problems are actually very common and affect people from all walks of life. In 2020, about:
- One in five American adults experienced a mental health issue
- Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the United States, affecting 40 million adults age 18 and older every year.*
- One in six young people experienced a major depressive episode
- One in 20 Americans lived with a serious mental illness, such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder or major depression
Myth: Children don’t experience mental health problems.
Fact: Children of all ages, including teens, tweens and even very young children, may show early warning signs of mental health concerns. These problems can arise from a variety of causes and are often diagnosable.
Myth: Personality weakness or character flaws cause mental health problems.
Fact: Mental health problems have nothing to do with being lazy or weak. Many factors contribute to mental health problems, including:
- Biological factors, such as genes, physical illness, injury or brain chemistry
- Life experiences, such as trauma or a history of abuse
- Family history of mental health problems
Myth: Once you have mental health problems, you’ll always have them.
Fact: Studies show that people with mental health problems get better, and many recover completely. There are more treatments, services and community support systems than ever before, and they work.
Myth: Therapy and self-help are a waste of time.
Fact: According to the American Psychology Association, hundreds of studies have found that psychotherapy helps people make positive changes in their lives**. Treatment for mental health problems varies depending on the individual and could include medication, therapy or both. Many individuals can work with support during the healing and recovery process.
Myth: I can’t do anything for a person with a mental health problem.
Fact: In 2020, only 20% of adults received any mental health treatment in the previous year, which included 10% who received counseling or therapy from a professional. Friends and family can be important influences to help someone get the treatment and services they need by:
- Reaching out and letting them know you’re available to help
- Helping them access mental health services
- Learning and sharing the facts about mental health, especially if you hear something that isn’t true
- Refusing to define them by their diagnosis or using labels such as “crazy”; instead use respectful language
*Anxiety & Depression Association of America. Understanding anxiety & depression.
**American Psychological Association. Understanding psychotherapy and how it works.
Source: MentalHealth.gov. Mental health myths and facts.
If you or a member of your household is struggling with a mental health condition, the following resources can help. These resources are confidential and available to you at no extra cost.