By: Mathew Kunnath John MSW, MPhil
Mental health is an integral part of our overall well-being, yet it is often shrouded in misconception and stigma. This can prevent individuals from seeking the help they need and create barriers to understanding and empathy. It’s time to challenge these outdated beliefs and embrace a more informed perspective. This post will debunk common myths surrounding mental illness, using evidence and facts to shed light on the truth.
Myth 1: mental health problems are rare
Contrary to the persistent myth that mental health problems are rare, evidence from leading global health organizations indicates they are remarkably common. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that approximately 1 in 8 people worldwide lived with a mental disorder in 2019. This figure, which translates to nearly a billion people, underscores that mental health conditions are a standard part of the human experience. Statistics from various countries reinforce this reality. In the United States, the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) reveals that nearly one in five adults live with a mental illness. Furthermore, the lifetime prevalence is even more striking; research suggests that a significant portion of the population will experience a mental health disorder at some point in their lives. The misconception of rarity is often fueled by social stigma and a lack of open conversation, which can lead to underreporting and a failure to seek help, rather than an actual low incidence of these conditions. (https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-disorders).
Myth 2: Children do not experience mental health problems
The assertion that children do not experience mental health problems and that such issues are exclusive to adults is unequivocally false. A substantial body of evidence from leading health organizations, including the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, confirms that children of all ages can and do suffer from a range of mental health conditions. Statistics indicate a significant prevalence, with studies showing that as many as 1 in 5 children may experience a mental, emotional, or behavioral disorder in any given year. Conditions such as anxiety, depression, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and trauma- and stressor-related disorders are commonly diagnosed in childhood and adolescence. Furthermore, research highlights that half of all lifetime mental illnesses begin by age 14. Ignoring or dismissing these early signs as mere “phases” can have detrimental and lasting effects, as untreated mental health issues in childhood can persist and worsen in adulthood, impacting overall well-being and development. (https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/adolescent-mental-health)
Myth 3: Individuals with mental illnesses as inherently violent and unpredictable
A pervasive and damaging myth falsely stereotypes individuals with mental illnesses as inherently violent and unpredictable. However, extensive research and data from leading health organizations overwhelmingly debunk this misconception. The American Psychological Association (APA) and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) are clear that the vast majority of people with mental health conditions are not violent. In fact, studies consistently show that individuals with serious mental illnesses are far more likely to be the victims of violent crime than the perpetrators. While a small subset of individuals with specific symptoms, often co-occurring with substance abuse, may have a slightly elevated risk of aggression, mental illness alone is not a predictor of violence. The perception of unpredictability is also largely unfounded; with proper diagnosis and treatment, the behavior of individuals with mental illnesses is often as predictable as that of the general population. The persistence of this myth is largely attributed to sensationalized media portrayals and a lack of public understanding, which fuel stigma and create significant barriers to recovery for those affected. (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537064/)
Myth 4: Individuals with mental illness cannot tolerate the stress of holding down a job
The idea that individuals with mental illness can’t handle job stress is a harmful misconception. Many mental health organizations, research, and employment statistics confirm that with proper support and accommodations, people with mental health conditions can thrive professionally. While mental health conditions can affect stress management, they don’t inherently prevent someone from being a productive employee. In fact, for many, meaningful work is vital for recovery and well-being. Flexible schedules, modified break times, or a quiet workspace are some of the effective, often low-cost accommodations that can help individuals manage stress and perform well, proving that a diagnosis doesn’t define one’s capabilities and that this pervasive myth only perpetuates stigma. (https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/what-is-mental-health/facts; )
Myth 5: Individuals with mental health problems cannot recover
It’s a common misconception that individuals with mental health problems cannot recover, but this is simply untrue. Mental health professionals and a wealth of scientific evidence confirm that recovery from mental illness is not only possible but a common outcome. Recovery can mean complete symptom remission for some, while for others, it involves effectively managing their condition to live a fulfilling life. Organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) advocate for a recovery-oriented model of care, emphasizing that various treatments, including psychotherapy and medication, significantly improve outcomes. While each person’s journey is unique, with the right support and care, individuals with mental health challenges can lead meaningful lives, debunking the harmful myth that a diagnosis is a life sentence. (https://www.apa.org/news/podcasts/speaking-of-psychology/serious-mental-illness; https://www.psychiatry.org/news-room/apa-blogs/new-study-looks-at-what-it-means-to-recover-from-m)
Myth 6: Individuals with psychosis and schizophrenia are always unproductive and unable to think clearly
The idea that individuals with psychosis and schizophrenia are always unproductive and unable to think clearly is a harmful myth. While acute episodes can be debilitating, effective treatments like medication and therapy, combined with strong support systems, can significantly reduce symptoms and allow many to lead productive lives, returning to work, education, and other meaningful activities. Numerous examples, including Nobel laureate Dr. John Nash, demonstrate that a diagnosis of severe mental illness does not negate a person’s potential for clear thought and achievement, highlighting the importance of proper care and support in recovery. (https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/schizophrenia/what-is-schizophrenia)
Factors Influencing Recovery
Several key elements determine how long recovery may take:
- Severity and Type of Illness: Mild issues from situational stress might resolve in weeks or months, while severe disorders like chronic depression or schizophrenia often require years of ongoing management, sometimes even a lifetime. Symptom intensity also plays a role.
- Underlying Causes and Co-occurring Conditions: Long-term issues (e.g., childhood trauma) and co-occurring disorders (e.g., substance use) can extend recovery time.
- Access to Treatment and Support: Timely, quality treatment (therapy, medication, support groups) and strong relationships with providers and support networks significantly aid and can speed up recovery.
- Individual Commitment and Resilience: A person’s willingness to engage in treatment, practice self-care, develop coping mechanisms, and make lifestyle changes greatly impacts their progress.
- Personal Definition of Recovery: Recovery means different things to different people—from clinical symptom absence to a personal journey of self-acceptance and meaningful living, which influences how it’s perceived and measured.
- It’s crucial to remember that recovery is a continuous process, not a destination. Setbacks and relapses can occur, offering chances for learning. The focus should always be on progress, not perfection, celebrating even small steps forward.
- Ultimately, successful recovery hinges on effective treatment, robust support systems, and personal dedication to the healing journey. (https://www.apa.org/news/podcasts/speaking-of-psychology/serious-mental-illness)
Myth 7: Spirits or supernatural forces cause mental illness
The idea that spirits or supernatural forces cause mental illness is a myth that has been thoroughly debunked by modern medical science. Leading health organizations like the American Psychiatric Association, the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), and the World Health Organization all confirm that mental illnesses are complex conditions influenced by biological, psychological, and social factors such as genetics, brain chemistry, traumatic experiences, and environmental stressors.
However, it’s also important to acknowledge that belief systems and cultural practices can significantly affect how mental health and mental illness are perceived, expressed, and even treated within communities. While supernatural explanations for mental illness are not scientifically valid, cultural beliefs can influence:
- Symptom interpretation: How individuals and communities understand and label their experiences.
- Coping mechanisms: The traditional or culturally sanctioned ways people cope with distress.
- Help-seeking behaviors: Whether individuals seek support from medical professionals, religious leaders, traditional healers, or family.
- Stigma: The level of shame or discrimination associated with mental health conditions.
Historically, supernatural explanations emerged from a lack of scientific understanding, leading to harmful practices. Today, extensive research in psychiatry, psychology, and neuroscience supports a medical model of mental illness. This makes it crucial to reject outdated supernatural claims that perpetuate stigma and hinder individuals from seeking effective, evidence-based treatments, while simultaneously respecting and understanding the diverse cultural contexts that shape mental health experiences.
Myth 8: Faith healers alone can treat mental illness through prayer or rituals
It’s a dangerous misconception that faith healers alone can treat mental illness through prayer or rituals. No scientific evidence supports this, and major health organizations like the American Psychiatric Association and the World Health Organization do not endorse faith healing as a standalone treatment. While faith offers comfort and support, it’s not a cure for complex biological, genetic, and environmental illnesses. Relying solely on spiritual healers can delay vital, evidence-based treatments like therapy and medication, potentially worsening conditions and leading to tragic outcomes. While faith communities offer valuable support, mental health professionals agree that effective treatment must be rooted in scientifically validated medical care. Trained spiritual and faith healers can complement professional mental healthcare by offering empathetic listening and community support, rather than replacing it.
Myth 9: Severity of an individual's illness is determined solely by the amount of emotional distress they experience
A common misconception about mental health is that the severity of an individual’s illness is determined solely by the amount of emotional distress they experience. This is false. While “clinically significant distress” is a diagnostic criterion for many mental health conditions, it is not the sole or primary factor in assessing the severity of an illness.
Clinical guidelines, such as those in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5), utilize a more comprehensive approach to determine severity. Clinicians evaluate the number, intensity, and duration of symptoms, as well as the degree of functional impairment—that is, how significantly the condition interferes with an individual’s daily life, including their ability to work, maintain relationships, and care for themselves. For many disorders, the DSM-5 provides specific “severity specifiers” (mild, moderate, or severe) based on objective and observable criteria, not just on the person’s subjective feelings of distress. For instance, a person with a severe mental illness may experience significant functional impairment while reporting low levels of personal distress, particularly in conditions affecting insight. Therefore, a thorough assessment by a qualified mental health professional, considering all these factors, is necessary to accurately determine the severity of a mental illness. (American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders. 5th ed. Arlington: American Psychiatric Association; 2013.)
Myth 10: Preventing mental illness is not possible
Contrary to popular belief, preventing mental illness is not only possible but also highly effective, as supported by extensive scientific evidence and leading health organizations like the WHO and SAMHSA. Prevention strategies are categorized into universal (for the general population), selective (for at-risk groups), and indicated (for those showing early signs). By addressing risk factors such as childhood adversity and social isolation, and strengthening protective factors like community support, we can significantly reduce the incidence of mental health conditions, leading to substantial societal benefits. (Jacka FN, Reavley NJ. Prevention of mental disorders: evidence, challenges and opportunities. BMC Med. 2014 May 9;12:75. doi: 10.1186/1741-7015-12-75. PMID: 24886356; PMCID: PMC4014629.)
Myth 11: Medications are prescribed when counselling doesn’t work. Medications work better than counselling, but medications have side effects
It’s a common misconception that medication is only a last resort for mental health treatment. In reality, the decision to use medication, counseling, or both hinges on a thorough assessment of an individual’s condition, symptom severity, preferences, and medical history. For many psychiatric conditions, medication may not be required or even advised.
When considering medications, it’s important to remember some may carry side effects. However, with proper monitoring by a healthcare professional, these effects are often manageable, allowing patients to continue their treatment safely and effectively.
Myth 12: Mental illness can be effectively treated with medication alone
A pervasive myth suggests that mental illness can be effectively treated with medication alone. However, this is a significant oversimplification of a complex issue. While psychiatric medications can be a crucial and life-saving component of treatment for many, the notion that they are the only solution is false. Reputable mental health organizations, including the American Psychiatric Association, emphasize that a holistic and individualized approach is most effective. Research consistently shows that a combination of treatments, particularly medication and psychotherapy, often yields the best outcomes. Evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) have been proven to be highly effective in treating various mental health conditions, sometimes even more so than medication in the long term. Therefore, the most accurate and evidence-based approach to mental health care typically involves a comprehensive plan that may include medication, psychotherapy, lifestyle adjustments, and other supportive services tailored to the individual’s specific needs.
Myth 13 : Anyone can become a mental health professional simply by accumulating experience with individuals who have mental health conditions and by reading books on the subject
A prevalent myth suggests that anyone can become a mental health professional simply by accumulating experience with individuals who have mental health conditions and by reading books on the subject. However, this assertion is false. Becoming a licensed and ethical mental health professional requires a rigorous combination of formal education, extensive supervised clinical training, and adherence to strict legal and ethical standards. While personal experience and knowledge from reading can foster empathy and understanding, they do not replace the essential qualifications needed to provide mental health care.
Mental health professions, including psychology, psychiatry, counseling, and social work, are regulated fields for a critical reason: the vulnerability of the individuals they serve. Practitioners in these fields must complete years of specialized higher education, typically at the master’s or doctoral level. This academic training provides a deep understanding of psychological theories, diagnostic criteria, and evidence-based treatment modalities. For example, a psychologist must earn a doctoral degree (Ph.D. or Psy.D.), which involves years of study and research. Psychiatrists are medical doctors who complete a residency in psychiatry. Licensed professional counselors (LPCs) and licensed clinical social workers (LCSWs) are required to hold a master’s degree in their respective fields.
Effective mental health training goes beyond coursework, critically relying on supervised clinical practicums to develop essential skills and ensure ethical conduct. All legitimate mental health professionals must be state-licensed, passing national exams and adhering to a professional code of ethics. These rigorous safeguards ensure practitioner competence and protect the public, as bypassing them through self-help or personal experience alone poses significant risks like misdiagnosis and exploitation.
Concluding Suggestions and Advice
It is crucial to recognize that numerous myths and beliefs surrounding mental illnesses are influenced by culture, education, and religion. However, it is vital to critically evaluate these perspectives. For accurate information and guidance, always consult reputable sources or seek advice from a mental health professional.
We’ve explored several common myths that often arise in various interactions. If you have any further questions or specific scenarios you’d like to discuss, please don’t hesitate to send your queries to manancalicut@gmail.com . We’ll do our best to respond and provide further clarity.
Here are some website links where you can find genuine information about mental illness and mental health:
- World Health Organization (WHO) – Mental Health: https://www.who.int/health-topics/mental-health#tab=tab_1
- American Psychiatric Association – Patients & Families: https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families
- Royal College of Psychiatrists – Mental Illnesses and Mental Health Problems: https://www.rcpsych.ac.uk/mental-health/mental-illnesses-and-mental-health-problems
About the author:
- Mathew Kunnath John is a highly experienced Psychiatric Social Worker and Mental Health Professional with over 13 years in the field. He established mananmentalhealth.com, offering secure online therapy to a diverse global clientele.
- Since November 2018, Mathew has completed five international missions with Doctors Without Borders (MSF), serving in Jordan, Sierra Leone, Ethiopia, Libya, and South Sudan, addressing critical mental health needs in conflict and crisis zones. He is also a prolific researcher, covering topics such as the impact of COVID-19, explanatory models of mental illness, social connectedness, gender discrimination, and psychological distress.
References
- American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). American Psychiatric Association.
- American Psychiatric Association. (n.d.). What is schizophrenia? Retrieved from https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/schizophrenia/what-is-schizophrenia
- American Psychiatric Association. (n.d.). New study looks at what it means to recover from mental illness. APA Blogs. Retrieved from https://www.psychiatry.org/news-room/apa-blogs/new-study-looks-at-what-it-means-to-recover-from-m
- American Psychological Association. (n.d.). Speaking of psychology: Serious mental illness. Podcast. Retrieved from https://www.apa.org/news/podcasts/speaking-of-psychology/serious-mental-illness
- Jacka, F. N., & Reavley, N. J. (2014). Prevention of mental disorders: evidence, challenges and opportunities. BMC Medicine, 12, 75. https://doi.org/10.1186/1741-7015-12-75
- National Center for Biotechnology Information. (n.d.). StatPearls. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537064/
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (n.d.). What is mental health? Facts. Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/what-is-mental-health/facts
- World Health Organization. (n.d.). Adolescent mental health. Fact Sheets. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/adolescent-mental-health
- World Health Organization. (n.d.). Mental disorders. Fact Sheets. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-disorders
