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.