Breaking the Stigma in Mental Health

Taking the first steps to get help when it comes to your mental health can be daunting, whether it’s seeing a psychiatrist or starting talk therapy. Despite growing awareness, criticisms and stigmas surrounding mental health are still prevalent in our society. These misconceptions can contribute to individuals feeling discouraged or ashamed to seek help, which can further lead to feelings of isolation and worsening of symptoms. 

Let’s take a moment today to debunk some of the most common myths of mental health we encounter in our day-to-day lives:

Myth: Mental Illness is not a real medical condition. 

Truth: Mental illnesses are health conditions that affect how people think, feel, behave, and function in daily life. Just like heart disease or diabetes, they have biological, psychological, and environmental causes. Research shows a difference in brain structure and activity in those with psychiatric illnesses and most psychiatric disorders have a genetic component to them. 

Myth: Mental illness is a sign of personal weakness.

Truth: Mental illness is not caused by laziness or weakness. As discussed above, they can be a result of biology, genetics, and environment factors — just like physical illnesses.

Myth: Mental health treatment is only needed for severe illnesses. 

Truth: Mental health treatment can be helpful for anyone struggling, regardless of severity. Identifying and treating symptoms early can prevent illnesses from escalating into more severe problems. 

Myth: Psychiatric medications are addictive. 

Truth: Most psychiatric medications are not addictive. Some medications, like certain controlled medications for anxiety or sleep, can cause dependence if misused, but they are prescribed with careful monitoring.

Myth: Therapy is just “talking” and a waste of time. 

Truth: There are different kinds of therapy that utilize techniques that can be beneficial. For example, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is evidence-based and scientifically proven to reduce symptom burden and improve quality of life. 

Challenging myths about psychiatry requires breaking down stigma and opening doors to understanding and empathy. Mental health conditions are real medical issues, but they are also treatable, and recovery is possible. By replacing misconceptions with support and knowledge, we can build a society where seeking help is seen as strength, not weakness. Taking that initial step can be daunting, however, you are not alone.