Mental Health - Myth/Fact

Mental Health Problems are Rare.

• Myth

• Fact

Answer explanation

Mental Health Problems affect one in four people every year. So, even if you don't have any mental health problem, it's likely a friend, a family member or colleague.

People with mental health problems are violent.

• Fact

• Myth

Answer explanation

People with mental health problems are much likely to be victims of violence. The violence myth make it more difficult for people to talk openly about mental health problems. It can also make friends reluctant to stay in touch.

People can recover from a Mental Illness.

• Myth

• Fact

Answer explanation

Many people can and do recover from mental health problems. Alongside professional help, the support of friends, family and getting back to work are all important in helping people recover.

On average, people with severe mental illnesses die ten years younger.

• Myth

• Fact

Answer explanation

But it's not mental illness that kills, it's the discrimination. The physical health needs of people with mental illnesses are often dismissed, causing higher rates of death from heart attacks, diabetes and cancer for people with mental illnesses.

The Stigma and Discrimination around the mental illness can be more difficult than the illness itself

• Myth

• Fact

Answer explanation

In a recent survey, 58% of the people said this stigma and discrimination is equally damaging, or harder to deal with, than the illness itself. 87% of the people with a mental health problem have experienced discrimination.

There's not much you can do to help a friend experiencing a mental health problem.

• Fact

• Myth

Answer explanation

If someone you know is experiencing a mental health problem, just staying in touch can really help. For many people, it is the small things that friends do, can make a difference like visiting.

People can't work if they have a mental health problem.

• Myth

• Fact

Answer explanation

With one in four people affected by mental health problems, you probably work with someone with a mental health problem. Many successful people including MPs, sports stars, and business leaders have been open about difficulties with their mental health.

If you use a mental health service, there's a one in three chance, you'll lose contact with friends.

• Myth

• Fact

Answer explanation

Sometimes friends feel like they don't know enough to help, or they feel uncomfortable. But you don't need to be a mental health expert to be a friend. It's often the little things that make a difference.