Some people believe therapy and mental health treatment are signs of weakness. They think “normal” people don’t need therapists. That’s just not true. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 20% of Americans experience some form of mental illness every year. Other notable mental health facts are that 1 in 20 adults experiences a serious mental condition, and 36% of young adults experience some form of mental illness.
Common Misconceptions About Therapy and Medication
Below are some of the most common mental health myths and why they don’t hold up when challenged.
- Mental Health Therapy Is a Sign of Weakness
This myth presupposes only weak people have mental health problems. It isn’t true, as many brave and courageous men and women of the armed forces can attest. Given the wrong conditions of stress, trauma, bereavement and isolation, anyone can develop mental health issues. It takes courage to seek mental health help. - Mental Health Therapy Doesn’t Work
Some people scorn mental health therapy because they claim it doesn’t work. They feel talking about their difficulties only makes them worse. This is incorrect. Talking through the issues affecting mental health helps you look at them in different ways and gain a more constructive perspective. Working with someone you can trust allows you to be open and honest about your inner feelings. - Only Crazy People Need Therapy
This misconception is based on the idea that crazy people should be forced to see a therapist. The opposite is true, and most people who go to therapy do it voluntarily and by choice. They go to therapy because they understand they need help to cope with mental health issues such as stress, anxiety or depression. - My Friends Won’t Talk to Me
While some people may avoid you if they know you’re having therapy, the friends who really matter will be happy for you and support your recovery. Talk therapy and mental health treatment work and will help you feel normal again. - Mental Health Medication Affects My Personality
This concept isn’t true and may be based on films that dramatize mental health issues. The purpose of medications is to reduce the symptoms of the condition you’re dealing with and help you live a normal life. Medication doesn’t change your personality.
The Stigma Around Seeking Help
More than one-third of all people with a mental health condition don’t seek help or delay treatment. They avoid or delay treatment over concerns of losing their jobs and friends. This stigma is unhelpful and reflects a lack of understanding of the effectiveness of mental health therapy and treatment.
- Self-Stigma
People with a mental condition may feel ashamed of themselves and believe their condition is a sign of weakness. While understandable, it’s important to remember you’re not to blame and that with the right help, you can find independence and better mental health. - Stigma From Others
In a society that lauds achievement, there’s a natural tendency to have negative views of people facing emotional and behavioral challenges. While there’s not a lot you can do about this, you can choose who you associate with. Real friends accept you for who you are and will encourage you to get help. - Institutional Stigma
Some organizations and institutions show a degree of intolerance toward anyone who doesn’t fit their mold. On the other hand, many organizations recognize the benefits of mental health treatment and support employees who take time off for treatment. - Dealing With Stigma
Don’t let the fear of rejection stop you from getting help. Discuss your condition with family and friends, and consider joining a support group.
The Truth About Mental Health Hospitalization and Rehab
Therapists have your best interests at heart. They start with counseling and outpatient therapy and only consider hospitalization if it’s necessary.
Inpatient treatment is best for conditions that require medical supervision, such as detox and stabilization. It gives the body a chance to recover and helps medical staff decide the best treatment and medication for your condition. Hospitalization is also recommended for conditions such as severe depression and self-harm.
Cultural Beliefs That Hinder Treatment
In the United States, mental health treatment is based on scientific inquiry. Almost all therapists in the country strive to be objective in their work.
However, the culture of the patient may significantly affect their willingness to seek and accept mental health treatment. Some cultures have difficulty expressing emotions and only focus on physical symptoms. Other groups may interpret mental health issues as coming from a spiritual source and prefer to turn to their priest or pastor for deliverance. Different cultures have varied concerns.
It’s essential to find a therapist who appreciates and researches cultural differences, as this can enhance the effectiveness of the therapy.
How Misinformation Impacts Recovery
Misinformation is a threat when it comes to choosing mental health therapy. With the reliance on social media for news, misinformation that aligns with individual beliefs spreads quickly. By creating mistrust, mental health misinformation discourages people from seeking help and undermines their recovery. It reinforces stigmas and creates negative stereotypes related to mental health care.
If you’re concerned about your mental well-being, check and double-check the information you get about treatment. Research credible sources on the internet, and discard ideas that can’t be verified.
Promoting Awareness and an Accurate Understanding of Mental Health Facts
Many credible sources of information about mental health are available. The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) has numerous infographics where you can find relevant mental health facts to help you make the right decision. You can also find information about where to get help from the CDC’s Mental Health webpage.
On a lighter note, here are some fun facts about mental health:
- Pets provide emotional support.
- Being kind helps your emotional well-being.
- Exercise reduces stress and helps you feel better.
Speak to a Therapist
Don’t let myths about mental health put you off getting help. If you need support, reach out to us at Restore Health. Call us anytime, day or night, for a confidential discussion about your mental health.
