Common Myths About Mental Health: Let's Set the Record Straight
Talking about mental health is often uncomfortable, so people tend to avoid it. But keeping quiet just means we’re more likely to believe stuff that isn’t true. Here are some common myths around mental health that need a serious reality check.
- “Mental health issues aren’t real problems.”
People often think mental health struggles aren’t as “real” as physical problems like a broken leg or the flu. But just like physical illness, mental health issues can cause serious pain and don’t just go away on their own. Mental health is just as important as physical health, so it’s time to start treating it that way.
- “Mental health problems are all in your head.”
Not true. Mental health issues can be triggered by things that happen around you: tough stuff like losing a job, breakups, or losing someone you care about. They also can have biological causes, like imbalances in the brain. Plus, mental health issues affect more than just one person; they impact relationships, stress levels, and even physical health.
- “There’s no connection between physical illness and mental health.”
Actually, mental and physical health are super connected. For example, cancer treatment doesn’t just focus on the body; it also involves mental support because going through something like that is rough. Mental stress can also show up as physical pain—like headaches, stomach aches, and back pain. Mind and body aren’t separate!
- “People are born with mental disorders.”
Genetics can play a part, but they’re not the only factor. Most mental health issues come from a mix of things, like environmental stress and biology. So, someone might have family history but never experience certain issues, while others with no family history might develop them.
- “Mental disorders are contagious.”
You won’t “catch” a mental health condition like you catch the flu. But being close to someone who is struggling can affect your own mood and stress levels. So, taking time to check in with yourself, setting boundaries, and practicing self-care can help if someone you know is going through a hard time.
- “Mental health issues are caused by bad parenting.”
Mental health disorders don’t have one cause, and blaming parents oversimplifies it. It’s usually a mix of things, like past experiences and genetics. Some people who go through difficult stuff in childhood may never develop mental health issues, while others from supportive families might.
- “Mental health issues can’t be prevented.”
Just like with physical health, there are ways to protect your mental health. Avoiding constant stress, surrounding yourself with positive people, and doing things you enjoy can help. Learning stress management techniques and self-care can make a huge difference too.
- “Mental disorders are a form of intellectual disability.”
Mental disorders and intellectual disabilities are different. An intellectual disability affects learning and problem-solving abilities. Mental health issues, on the other hand, are more about our emotions, behavior, and thoughts. People with mental health challenges generally have the same intellectual abilities as everyone else.
- “Mental health issues are rare.”
Actually, they’re super common! One in four Europeans will experience a mental health issue at some point. Lots of people don’t talk about it, but that doesn’t mean these issues aren’t there. The World Health Organization says mental health disorders, especially depression, are among the most common health problems today.
- “I’m immune to mental health problems.”
Anyone can experience mental health challenges—doesn’t matter how old you are, what you do, or where you come from. Taking preventative steps like self-care, stress management, and staying active can help, but no one is 100% immune. Life events and biology both play a part.
Bottom Line: Let’s Talk About It
Keeping the conversation open, finding reliable information, and ditching these myths help everyone. Mental health is just as real and important as physical health, and talking about it openly makes it easier for everyone to get the support they need.
Karmen Erjavec in Sabina Krsnik