Myths and Facts of Mental Illness

Taken from 'Time to Change'

 

Myth or fact?

Challenging the myths about mental illness can be a good way to get people thinking and talking...

• Myth: People with mental illness can’t work. 
• Fact: Chances are, you probably work with someone with mental illness

• Myth: Mental health problems are very rare
• Fact: Mental health problems affect one in four people

• Myth: People with mental illness never recover
• Fact: People with mental illness can and do recover.

• Myth: People with mental health problems are different from normal people:
• Fact: We all have mental health, just like we all have physical health.

• Myth: After experiencing a mental health problem, people are weaker.
• Fact: Many people who have gone through this actually feel stronger

• Myth: People with mental illnesses are violent and unpredictable.
• Fact: People with mental illness are more likely to be a victim of violence

• Myth: It’s best to leave people alone if they develop a mental health problem.
• Fact: Most people with mental health problems want to keep in touch with friends, family and colleagues, it can be a great help in their recovery.

• Myth: I don't know anyone with a mental illness
• Fact: Someone you know or love has experienced a mental illness

• Myth: People aren’t discriminated against because of mental health problems
• Fact: Nine out of ten people with mental health problems experience stigma and discrimination.