WHO (World Health Organisation) has defined good mental health by stating
We live in a society where unfortunately, we are still privy to a list of misconceptions surrounding mental health and an ever rising number of people being diagnosed with general anxiety and depressive symptoms.
“Mental health is a state of well-being in which an individual realises his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and is able to make a contribution to his or her community.”
We are here today to bust 10 mental health myths that will leave you buzzing in your seats. Ready? Get set! GO
1.MYTH : Poor mental health is a sign of weakness.
FACT: Not feeling your best mentally has nothing to do with strength or will power. IF anything, accepting that you feel low and need some help is only a sign of courage!
2. MYTH : If you have poor mental health, you will be put on medications.
FACT : While at some stages medication might be prescribed by a psychiatrist, there are various forms of therapy that could help before reaching the stage of medication.
3. MYTH : Depression is all in your head! There are no underlying causes for it.
FACT : Depression can be caused by a variety of reasons - from traumatic life events to being susceptible to depression due to your genetic makeup.
4. MYTH : Once you acquire a mental illness, it will never go away.
FACT : A person can and many have recovered from mental illness. Today, we have a plethora of treatments including both medication as well as therapy methods that help a person feel stronger and able to return to their day to day lives.
One key thing to remember is : The sooner you can reach out for help, the sooner your road to recovery will begin!
5. MYTH : Not being on your phone too much will cure your mental illness.
FACT : While extended hours using technology is harmful to your health, it is NOT a core cause of mental illness. Poor mental health can be caused by your genes, environment, life circumstances and more.
Simply controlling the time you spend on your phone will not be the balm to your mental health!
6. MYTH : Mental health disorders are only problems of the rich and does not affect too many people.
FACT : Anyone can be susceptible to signs and symptoms of poor mental health. One’s socioeconomic status, social background and level of education has nothing to do with it!
7. MYTH : Therapy is all about talking - it is a waste of time!
FACT : The right balance between medications and therapy must be created in order to help someone who is suffering from a mental health illness. While medications help control one’s genetic disposition and physiological symptoms, therapy is key in order to heal trauma and help the individual bounce back to a well-rounded lifestyle.
8. MYTH : A stressful life does not mean one needs help from a therapist.
FACT : Therapy is not only limited to mental illness. Learning how to manage stress and create a balanced life schedule is key and can be brought about by simple interventions used by therapists.
9. MYTH : Only people with serious mental health issues can seek help.
FACT : Therapy is for everyone! Let’s stop putting a label on it. Seeking help and talking to a trained professional will always give you the right tools to enhance your life. Therapy helps bring out the best version of you!
10. MYTH : Mental health help is inaccessible and difficult to find.
FACT : Better mental health is just one click away! Carebyte has a team of qualified professionals who are waiting to bring the right help to you at your time and convenience. Subscribe to our services and meet your Care Team and experienced clinical psychologists right away.