Despite increased focus on the importance of mental health, many myths still exist about what mental illness is and what it looks like.
Myth: You’re either mentally ill or mentally healthy.
Fact: Like any illness, a mental disorder can effect you in different degrees of severity.
Myth: Mental illness is a sign of weakness.
Fact: Wether an illness is physical or mental, it is not a sign of weakness, rather the result of genes, physical illness, injury, brain chemistry, family history or life experiences.
Myth: You cant prevent mental health problems.
Fact: You cant prevent all mental health problems, but early recognition and treatment can help diminish symptoms significantly.
Myth: People with mental illness are violent.
Fact: Most people with mental health problems are non violent. Only 3% of violent crimes are attributed to mental health disorders.
Myth: Mental health problems last forever.
Fact: Although not all mental health problems are curable most are treatable. Many people with mental health conditions recover completely.
