Breaking the Stigma: Myths and Facts About Mental Health Care

While in recent years mental health has finally started to receive more of the positive attention it deserves, plenty of myths still surround what it means and looks like to have a mental illness. 

With May being Mental Health Awareness Month, our team at Greenwich Avenue Psychiatry in Greenwich, Connecticut, wants to debunk some of these myths to start eradicating the stigma that surrounds mental health treatment and those living with a mental health condition. 

So, we’re taking some time in this month’s blog to discuss common misconceptions surrounding mental health in order to set the record straight. 

Myth: Mental illnesses are rare

If you’ve been hesitant to talk about a mental illness or seek treatment for one because you feel alone in your struggle, know that there are many, many others going through something similar. In fact, studies estimate that 450 million people worldwide are currently living with a neurological/mental health disorder, with depression and anxiety topping the list. 

So, don’t be afraid to seek help. It’s not uncommon to have a mental health condition, and getting professional care is the first step toward getting the treatment you need. 

Myth: People getting mental health care are “weak” or “attention-seeking”

Having a mental health condition has nothing to do with personality, character flaws, or “not being strong enough.” You can’t will away a mental illness any more than you can wish you didn’t have a physical ailment like a broken leg or arthritis. 

Mental illness is the result of a combination of factors that are completely out of your control. These factors can include genetics, injury, physical illness, brain chemistry, trauma, history of abuse, or family history of mental illness. 

Plus, because of how much negative stigma surrounds mental illness, it can take a long time for someone to seek help for it. So, you should never assume that someone is weak or clamoring for attention when it comes to mental health care. 

Myth: Medication is required to treat mental illnesses

It’s true that medications are a powerful tool for managing symptoms of mental health conditions. However, they aren’t always necessary, nor does everyone respond well to them. Other great options for treating mental illnesses include some form of psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, and boosted support systems. 

Myth: Mental illnesses are permanent

As long as you seek treatment, mental health recovery is a possibility. Mental health recovery means you can live a happy and ambitious life full of meaning and possibilities. There are so many treatment and community support options in this day and age that a full recovery is more than just a possibility. 

Don’t let negative stigma about mental health keep you or a loved one from getting help. Schedule an appointment with our compassionate and expert team by calling our office or booking online today.