Myths & Facts
Can you tell the difference between a mental health myth and fact? Dispelling myths about mental health can help break the stigma and create a culture that encourages people of any age to seek support when they need it. This section reveals the truth about the most common mental health myths through the associated facts since recovery is possible; the first step is getting Help!
Statement: Mental health problems are not real problems.
Fact: Mental health problems are not the regular ups and downs of life. It creates distress, doesn't go away on its own and are real health problems. It hinders a person's normal life functioning. When someone is physically injured, they see a doctor. Similarly, mental health problems also require seeing a mental health professional- psychologist/counsellor/psychiatrist.
Statement: Mental health issues are just an excuse for poor behaviour and poor academic performance
Fact: It’s true that some people who experience mental illnesses may act in ways that are unexpected or seem strange to others. For instance, being angry or violent or may start crying suddenly for no apparent reason. We need to remember that the illness, not the person, is behind this behaviour.
Statement: Children do not experience Mental Health problems
Fact: Even very young children may show early warning signs of mental health concerns. Half of the mental health problems show first signs before a person turns 14 years old.
Statement: Children show anger and violent behaviour due to lack of discipline and manners
Fact: More than a myth, it is a stereotype/bias that adults hold against children. When children are in distress or confused or feel rejected or experience any mental health issue, they may express themselves in different ways. Some children may become withdrawn or isolated whereas others may show anger or violent behaviour. Also, one must be mindful of the fact that aggression and violence can be a learned behaviour. Children who witness aggressive behaviour or violence at home may adopt this behaviour to cope with any difficult situations in life.
Statement: Mental health problems happen due to personal weaknesses of children
Fact: Mental health problems have nothing to do with being weak and many people need help to get better. Many factors contribute to mental health problems, including:
- Biological factors, such as genes, physical illness, injury, or brain chemistry
- Life experiences, such as trauma or a history of abuse
- Family history of mental health problems
- People with mental health problems can get better and many recover completely.
Statement: Children can manage mental health problems through will power
Fact: Children don’t have the skills and life experience to manage conditions as overwhelming as depression, anxiety, or ADHD. They can benefit profoundly from the right treatment plan, which usually includes a type of behavioural therapy, and have their health and happiness restored.
We can’t expect children and teens to have the tools to overcome these challenges on their own, but they can recover with the help of their parents, or other significant adults in their lives and an effective intervention plan.
