UNDERSTANDING MENTAL HEALTH
TOP 3 MYTHS & FACTS ABOUT MENTAL ILLNESS
#1 MYTH:
Children don't experience mental health problems.
#1 FACT:
Even very young children may show early warning signs of mental health concerns. Half of all mental health disorders show first signs before a person turns 14 years old, and three quarters of mental health disorders begin before age 24. Unfortunately, less than 20% of children and adolescents with diagnose mental health problems receive the treatment they need. Early mental health support can help a child before problems interfere with other developmental needs.
#2 MYTH:
Personality weakness or character flaws cause mental health problems. People with mental health problems can snap out of it if they try hard enough.
#2 FACT:
Mental health problems have nothing to do with being lazy or 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.
#3 MYTH:
There is no hope for people with mental health problems. Once you develop mental health problems, you will never recover.
#3 FACT:
Studies show that people with mental health problems get better and many recover completely. Recovery refers to the process in which people are able to live, work, learn, and participate fully in their communities. There are more treatments, services, and community support systems than ever before, and they work.