Breaking Myths about Mental Health
Whether it is Bell let's talk or ads from different parts of the Mental Health Commisson or CAMH reminding people that the mental health crisis is real, stigma still exists around mental health.
The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health in Canada reported that 1 in 2 people by the age of 40 will have had a mental illness (see Note 1). Even with statistics like that there still is stigma.
What is Stigma?
Health Canada defines this way: "stigma is negative attitudes, beliefs or behaviours about or towards a group of people because of their situation in life." (Note 2)
Stigma affects people in many ways - it prevents them from getting the support they need. Sometimes people internalize stigma and judge themselves for having mental health challenges. This can hold the person back from getting the support they need to flourish.
Stigma can be amplified by myths around mental health
Here are some common myths about mental health
Myth 1: Mental Illness isn't a 'real' illness
Breaking the Myth: You might hear stigma expressed in phrases like, just push through that hard time or don't give up! These phrases may come from a good desire to help a person to get through a hard time, they minimize and discount the other person's experience. Anxiety and depression can impact someone's ability to do the things they want to and their overall quality of life.
Myth 2: Mental Illness is something the person can 'just decide' not to be in
Breaking the Myth: Mental illness isn’t something a person can simply 'get over' by trying harder. It’s not about willpower or just thinking positively. Conditions like anxiety, depression other mental illnesses require proper treatment, which may involve therapy, medication, or changes in daily habits. Telling someone to 'just decide not be depressed' only downplays their struggle and can prevent them from reaching out for the help they need.
Myth 3: Mental illness is because the person is weak
Breaking the Myth: Many people believe that those with mental illness are simply not “strong” enough to deal with their problems. This harmful myth prevents individuals from seeking the help they need. Mental illnesses are medical conditions, not character flaws, and managing them takes strength. Just as no one would consider someone with a broken leg “weak,” those suffering from mental health issues deserve the same compassion and understanding.
Myth 4: Mental illness can be 'solved' all alone
Breaking the Myth: Although mental illness can be a long-term condition, many individuals are able to manage their symptoms successfully with the help of therapy, medication, and other forms of treatment. Mental health professionals provide guidance in building coping skills and making lifestyle adjustments that enhance overall well-being. Early treatment and ongoing support are key factors in the recovery process.
Next Steps
Perhaps you are reading this and have been thinking of areas of your mental health that are languishing and are a struggle. Perhaps you are wondering about your next step. At GJ Counselling we offer therapy options for a range of mental health challenges, providing a safe space for individuals and couples to open up and start their healing journey. We offer in person therapy in Guelph Ontario and online therapy to people in the province of Ontario, Canada.
We are here to help, you were not meant to walk alone.
Reach out today if you want support in your mental health journey.
Notes
1. see https://www.camh.ca/en/driving-change/the-crisis-is-real
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