Mental Health Myth versus Fact

1 in 4 people will experience a mental health problem in any given year.

• Myth

• Fact

Mental health conditions cannot be prevented

• Myth

• Fact

Answer explanation

Prevention of mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders focuses on addressing known risk factors such as exposure to trauma that can affect the chances that children, youth, and young adults will develop mental health problems.

Mental health conditions are a sign of weakness.

• Myth

• Fact

Answer explanation

Mental strength is not the same as mental health. Just as someone with diabetes could still be physically strong, someone with depression can still be mentally strong.

People with mental health problems don't experience discrimination

• Myth

• Fact

Answer explanation

9 out of 10 people with mental health problems experience stigma and discrimination.

Your personality or ability to handle your feelings does not cause mental health conditions. Mental health conditions are not just “in your head” or something that goes away if you try hard. The right combination of what helps is different for each person. Once they find something that helps them, most people with mental conditions live healthy, full lives.

• Myth

• Fact

All mental health conditions are different, but being diagnosed with one will not keep you from being able to grow up, learn how to take care of yourself, and get an apartment or house like everyone else.

• Myth

• Fact

When people have mental health conditions, they will never get better.

• Myth

• Fact

Talking about your mental health challenges is a waste of time. It’s better to just take medicine.

• Myth

• Fact

When people have mental health coniditons, they will never get better.

• Myth

• Fact

Answer explanation

People diagnosed with mental health conditions can get better. Every condition is different. Some people feel better when they talk to someone, like a friend or a doctor, or take medication. Most people need help from friends and family to talk and figure out how to live with their condition. Not all people have to take medicine or see a therapist for the rest of their lives.

People with mental health conditions are all violent

• Myth

• Fact

Answer explanation

More often than not, people living with mental health conditions are not dangerous or violent. In reality, those with mental health conditions are more likely to be victims of bullying or abuse.