the misconceptions of mental illnesses

Let's talk about myths and mental illness. A myth is a widely held but false belief or idea. Unfortunately, the stigma around mental illness which is filled with myths and misconceptions, has created such a separation. The stigma and myths prevent others from getting the help they need.

Can you imagine suffering from a disease in silence and never getting the medical care you need? Diseases like cancer, heart disease, diabetes can all lead to death if they are not treated. Mental illness is no different. That is exactly what is happening in our world today. Many people are struggling with a disease, a disease that can be invisible to others, in silence.

Below are some myths surrounding Mental illnesses:

• Anxiety isn't a real disorder

• People with social anxiety are just shy

• Bipolar disorder is just mood swings

• PTSD is only a military man's illness

• Addiction is a choice that people make

• People with BPD are manipulative and controlling

• Panic attacks are only a symptom of panic disorder

• Schizophrenia means you have a split personality

• People with mental health conditions cannot work

• Mental health problems are a sign of weakness

• Eating disorders only affect females

• Eating disorders are a lifestyle choice

• All people with mental illness are violent

The only way we are going to wipe away the stigma is for others to be informed. It is important to remember that no two people are the same and that no people will have the same experience with mental illness and even ones with the same mental illness.

So how do we inform people? How do we get the world’s attention if no one talks about it because they believe the myths or because they are scared? I obviously don’t have all the answers but I do know that hiding behind a wall and covering up mental illness is not going to help. It hasn’t helped yet.

A few ways to help raise awareness for mental illness:

• Volunteer and participate

• Research

• Share your story

• Create a space on a social media platform

There are plenty of other ways. There are amazing organizations around the world that you can be a part of or even just gain knowledge from their website, books, brochures, events etc. I can’t wait to share some of the organizations that mean the most to me.

Future blog post: specific mental illnesses and the myths surrounding them.

XO,

Whit Web