6 common myths about mental illness, busted

Struggling with your mental health? Anxiety, depression, and other behavioral health conditions are more common than you might think. More than 55 million Americans have a mental illness.

With such a wide impact, awareness about mental health is growing. But there’s still a lot of work to do. Why? 

Misinformation about mental illness stops many people from getting the help they need, says Michelle Drapkin, PhD. She’s a psychologist in Highland Park, New Jersey. In fact, more than half of all adults with a mental illness do not receive treatment.

Here’s a closer look at the myths around mental illness. Learning the truth can help you get the help you deserve and stick with a long-term treatment plan.

Myth 1: Mental illness is rare 

More than 1 in 5 American adults live with a mental illness. And 1 in 25 live with a more serious mental illness, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. 

“Mental illness is certainly not rare. The idea that it is rare contributes to a lot of stigma,” says Jessica Turner, MD. She’s a psychiatrist in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. “We need to talk about it, so people can get treatment.” 

Myth 2: Seeking treatment for a mental illness is a sign of weakness  

It’s actually a sign of strength, says Drapkin. “The sooner you seek help, the less treatment you may need.” It’s key to get help early on, when symptoms are milder. This may help stave off full-blown effects later.  

If you’ve recently been treated at the hospital for a mental health condition, you might already know this. You likely received care that has helped you feel like yourself again. So, keeping up with your treatment plan after you’re home is vital. 

Myth 3: Only certain types of people have a mental illness  

Mental illness can be a reality for anyone. It doesn’t matter:  

• How old they are 
• What race they are 
• Their cultural background 
• How much money they make 

Genes, however, may play a role. Some mental disorders run in families.   

Did a parent, sibling, or grandparent struggle with a mental illness? If so, you may find that you do too.   

There are also genes that may raise your chance for certain conditions, including: 

• Schizophrenia 
• Bipolar disorder 
• Major depression 

Myth 4: Mental illnesses can be treated only with medication 

Many conditions, such as depression and anxiety, can be managed with talk therapy and lifestyle changes.  

“Many people are afraid that if they see a psychologist or psychiatrist, they’ll be forced to take medication,” says Dr. Turner. But there are often other things you can try first. These include exercise, dietary changes, and getting social support.  

And sometimes the most effective action is to combine talk therapy with medication, adds Drapkin.  

Myth 5: People with a mental illness are dangerous  

In fact, the opposite is often true. Take people with schizophrenia, for example. They are more likely to be the victim of violence than to be violent themselves. It’s one more myth that can stop people from seeking help.  

Myth 6: Mental illness is a choice 

“Some of my patients have been told to just snap out of it,” says Dr. Turner. “But you can’t fake it until you make it with mental illness.” 

Think about it like this. You wouldn’t tell someone that it was their choice to develop cancer. Mental illness is the exact same way. And the sooner everyone understands that, the happier and healthier we’ll all be. 

Article sources: 

Mental illness statistics: National Institute of Mental Health; Mental Health America 

Mental health background: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention   

Genes and mental health: National Institute of Mental Health   

Schizophrenia and violence research: The American Journal of Psychiatry