There are lots of mistaken beliefs and wrong ideas about mental health disorders, and driving away these myths can help break the stigma around victims. According to an article published by United Nations Independent Children Emergency Fund (UNICEF), here are some myths and its truth.
1. If a person has a mental health condition, it means the person is slow and has low intelligence
This is so not true because mental illness like physical illness can affect just about anyone regardless of age group, social class or intelligence.
2. People with mental conditions cannot work
It is an old myth that people with mental health issues cannot be useful members of the workforce. This is actually wrong because there are individuals who have and maintain jobs despite being saddled with a mental health issue.
3. Mental health problems are a sign of weakness.
Fighting a mental health condition takes a great deal of strength. That doesn't mean it is a sign of weakness. Mental health disorders are illnesses, not signs of poor character.
4. People who need psychiatric care should be locked away in institutions
This is wrong! Today most people can lead productive lives and within their communities without constituting a nuisance, thanks to a variety of support groups and programs
5. Bad parenting causes mental conditions in adolescents
This is false because a lot of factors like poverty, exposure to violence and other adverse circumstances can influence the mental health of adolescents.
6. Adolescents who get good grades and have a lot of friends will not have mental health conditions
No matter how good you've got life going on for you, it is still highly possible to fall deep into depression. Moreover, young people doing well in school may feel pressure to succeed which can cause anxiety or depression.
7. Nothing can be done to protect people from developing mental health conditions
Many factors can actually protect people from declining mental health. For example, healthy sleep patterns, developing warm relationships, and seeking support early on.
Source: United Nations Independent Children Emergency Fund (UNICEF)
Content created and supplied by: Georgiapens (via Opera News )
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