The stigma surrounding mental illness has evolved with society. Where it was once taboo to even mention certain mental illnesses, it has become much more likely to be discussed and researched. As mental health topics have moved into mainstream society with the help of research, celebrities, and more available treatment options, you may realize you know a lot more people with a mental illness than you once thought.
However, as a society, we still have a long way to go to eradicate those harmful myths about mental illness that get easily passed from generation to generation. Here are a few myths that should be overthrown and forgotten.
Myth 1: Mental Illness Is Uncommon
Mental illness is not uncommon. You probably have many people in your life who have a diagnosed mental illness. Some are open and talk about their struggles, while others find it better to keep their mental health issues private. Support the people in your life and create relationships with your loved ones who feel comfortable telling you about their experience with mental illness.
Myth 2: Mental Illness Means You Cannot Work
Having mental health issues does not mean that a person cannot work. Just as with any physical illness, a person with a mental illness faces specific struggles with their situation. Working with a mental health professional is key in learning how to work with challenges and reach any goal desired. Myths such as this one create a stigma that those who have a mental illness are not as capable as those who do not. Challenging these stigmas helps create a society where everyone feels valued and capable.
Myth 3: People With Mental Illness Are Dangerous
The erroneous notion that everyone with a mental illness is dangerous is one myth that has lingered from generation to generation. Individuals diagnosed with a mental illness are not inherently more dangerous than anyone else in society. Fighting stigmas is crucial to getting myths such as this out of mainstream society.
While the stigma associated with mental illness has changed from what it was in the past, there are still many myths surrounding mental illness. Common myths tend to be passed from generation to generation. Fighting myths is crucial in working towards a better-informed society, where everyone feels valued and accepted. Here at The Guest House, we are a group of professionals ready to help educate anyone with questions or concerns regarding mental health. Call us today at (855) 483-7800 to learn more about our treatment options and how we support a wide range of clients.