There are many Misconceptions on mental health and as someone who struggles with mental health issues here are some myths that I’ve busted on my journey to healing. Before I begin, I want to assure you that there is absolutely nothing wrong with you. As someone who spent three years thinking I was a major problem to my family and friends it took me time to realize I was not, and neither are you.
Myth: Mental Illness is RARE
Mental health conditions are definitely more common than we think. About 1 in 5 adults in the U.S have experience of mental health issues each year. Mental disorders can affect anyone, 1 in 20 Americans have lived with serious disorders such as bipolar disorder and major depression.
Myth: Talking About Mental illness makes you weak
Now let me make it clear once again there is absolutely nothing wrong with You. In fact, it makes you strong just speaking on your health as many people don’t which unfortunately leads to a long-term untreated disorders or suicide. Mental health affects many people old and young, no matter what ethnical background you come from.
Myth: Children don’t experience Mental Health Illness
As stated in the section above this affects many people and young children are no exception to mental illness in fact children show early signs of mental disorders. Yes, sometimes children are moody or going through a little phase but sometimes that is not the case. Research shows 1 in 10 children have the mental health diagnosis These issues are easily diagnosable but please consult a psychiatrist in properly assisting your child in mental health.
Myth: Panic Attacks can be fatal
Although panic attacks are very uncomfortable as someone who has panic attacks, I understand how uncomfortable they are. I myself have also been told Panic Attacks are fatal but I can’t tell you that is another myth. When a person is having a panic attack their body goes into fight or flight mode in other words your body reacts as if you are in danger. Yes, this is scary since your heart races but have no fear you are going to be okay. If you struggle with panic attacks, please seek proper health care such as consulting with your doctor on how to deal with your anxiety.
Myth: “people with this illness are dangerous”
This is a very common misconception unfortunately I have also been a victim of this horrible stereotype. However, people with a disorder are not naturally dangerous to be truthful there are people in our everyday lives who are struggling, and you don’t even know it sometimes neither do they. When it comes to violence in mental disorders studies show that some people have been a victim of abuse or other childhood traumas.
Myth: Therapy is a waste of time
I know therapy isn’t for everyone, I know many people wouldn’t want someone who doesn’t know them to tell you how to feel trust me I was against therapy too. When I tried it, I hated it at first, but I knew if I wanted to get better, I needed a professional to help me out and give the guidance I’ve been looking for. Therapy or group therapy if you would prefer that are relatively helpful to most especially because they give new perspectives on life and the everyday issues that we can use for the rest of our lives. We can learn a lot like coping mechanisms, how to deal with our emotions better than we’re used to.
About author:
Destinee Vann is a mental health advocate who uses her platform to teach others about mental health and how to cope. (email: destineemonea3@gmail.com) (Instagram @sincerelyy.dess)