Dispelling the Myths about Mental Health

Myth: Mental health conditions are uncommon.

Fact: One in five Americans experience mental illness sometime in their life and it affects people of all ages, races, income levels, and religions. Mental illness is a medical problem, and is one of the leading causes of disability in the United States.

Myth: Mental illness is caused by personal weakness.

Fact: Mental illness can be caused by environmental or biological factors, or a combination of both. Some people are more susceptible because they have a stressful job, difficult home life, or were the witness or victim of violence; while others may have a genetic predisposition. In any case, mental illness is not the fault of the person it afflicts.

Myth: You don’t need therapy. Just take a pill.

Fact: As with any major medical issue, there is no “one size fits all” approach to healing. While medication can help, it may not be the only treatment a person needs to feel better. Often the best outcomes are achieved through a combination of medication and psychotherapy.

Myth: People with mental health conditions are violent and dangerous.

Fact: Having a mental health condition does not make a person more likely to be violent or dangerous. The majority of people with mental health conditions are no more likely to be violent than anyone else. Studies have shown that 1 in 4 individuals living with a mental health condition will be the victim of violence in any given year, and only 3%–5% of violent acts can be attributed to individuals with a serious mental illness.

Myth: I can't do anything for a person with mental illness.

Fact: You can have a huge impact on the health of someone you think may be struggling. Only 44% of adults with diagnosable mental health conditions will get the treatment they need. Reaching out to let someone know you see a change in their behavior, that you are worried, and that you want to help can support them in taking the next step to recovery.