The holiday season has officially commenced, and for the millions of people in the United States who have a mental illness, there is a lot of pressure and stress in the midst.
Whether you're aware of it or not, chances are you know someone who has been personally affected by a mental illness. If you don’t know the difference between the myths and the facts about mental illness, I am here to provide some clarity.
1. Myth: Mental illnesses aren’t common.
Fact: According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), approximately one in five adults in the U.S.—43.8 million, or 18.5 percent—experiences mental illness in a given year.
2. Myth: People with a mental illness can “pull themselves out of it.”
Fact: A mental illness is not caused by personal weakness and is not “cured” by personal strength.
3. Myth: Mental illnesses are brought on by a weakness of character.
Fact: A mental illness is not a character flaw. It is caused by genetic, biological, social, and environmental factors.
4. Myth: People with a mental illness are violent.
Fact: People with a mental illness are no more violent or dangerous than the rest of the population. People with a mental illness are more likely to harm themselves, or to be harmed than they are to hurt other people.
5. Myth: Stress causes mental illness.
Fact: This is only partially true. Stress may occasionally trigger an episode or cause symptoms, such as anxiety or depression, but persistent symptoms appear to be biological in nature.
6. Myth: A person can recover from a mental illness by turning his or her thoughts into positive ones and with prayer.
Fact: Recovery is possible when the person receives the necessary treatment and support. Spirituality can be an important source of strength for some individuals as well.
7. Myth: People with a mental illness never get better.
Fact: Treatment varies, depending on the individual, and could include medication, therapy, or both. There are more treatments, services, and community support systems than ever before and many people with mental illnesses recover completely.
8. Myth: Children and young people can’t get mental illnesses.
Fact: According to NAMI, approximately one in five people ages 13–18, or 21.4 percent, experiences a severe mental disorder at some point during their life. For children ages 8–15, the estimate is 13 percent.
The reality of mental illness may not be what we thought. Mental illness is more common than it used to be, and anyone can have a mental illness. However, recovery is possible with treatment and support. Family and friends, please provide comfort and support for your loved ones, especially during this overwhelming holiday season.
