5 Of The Most Common Mental Health Misconceptions

There have always been certain misconceptions surrounding mental health, and while these may never disappear completely, in talking about them and shedding some light on the truth, we might help more people to realize when they should seek help, and enable others to be more understanding of those suffering with a mental health condition.

Here are 5 of the most common mental health misconceptions:

1. If you don’t feel mentally unwell today, you won’t have a problem tomorrow

While you may never have experienced a problem with your mental health before, life events and stresses can trigger a variety of emotional responses, and these can alter with time and age. Just because you can carry on with your life as normal today doesn’t necessarily mean that you won’t have an issue with your mental health at some time in the future. In fact, in any given year, 25% of the population has a diagnosable mental health condition.

2. Some people will never be affected by mental illness

Nobody is immune to mental illness, and even if you’re able to shape many aspects of your life, there is nothing you can do to control unpredictable stressors that may occur at any period in your life.

3. If you’re mentally strong, then you’ll remain mentally healthy

In fact, the two are worlds apart. In much the same way as a physically strong weightlifter is not immune to suffering with their physical health, someone who considers themselves to be mentally strong can just as easily suffer from a mental health condition. It is true that having mental strength can help prevent some mental illnesses, but it does not give you immunity. 

4. Medication is the only solution

While medication is sometimes prescribed by health professionals, it is often paired  with (or secondary to) other forms of therapy, such as counseling, to give patients a more rounded experience that is likely to help them feel better quicker, and for longer.

5. Treatment isn’t always successful

The data on mental health treatment shows just how effective it can be. There have been hundreds of studies and meta studies that show the effectiveness of psychotherapy. Of course, nothing works all the time, and there are factors affecting the outcome that are beyond the reach of health professionals, such as if a patient returns to an addictive behavior that inhibits their recovery. However, if you commit to getting better, and find a counselor that you trust and can work with, then there is no reason why your treatment shouldn’t work.

If any of the above common misconceptions are the reason why you haven’t sought help for a problem with your mental health, then hopefully you are now in a better position to assess your situation and take the necessary steps towards finding a treatment plan that will be most effective for you.

Learn more at: www.heartcenteredcounselors.com