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Mental health is often misunderstood because of the stigma attached to it.  These are myths that I have heard in the therapy room as well as outside the therapy room.  I hope to dismantle these myths and continue to reduce the stigma associated with mental health.

1. Myth –  Individuals who seek therapy are weak or have character flaws.

Starting therapy does not mean there is something wrong with you. We are all human and we all struggle. We all go through emotional struggles at some point in our life. By seeking therapy, you make the conscious decision to face those struggles instead of avoiding or escaping the problem. Avoiding emotional struggles leads to unhealthy coping habits such as numbing with alcohol, drugs, negative self-talk, self-harm, yelling/fighting, etc.  Starting and continuing with therapy shows you are willing to grow, develop, and make positive changes in your life.  Seeking therapy is a sign of strength, not weakness. 

2. Myth –  Diagnosing a mental health concern is not an exact science, therefore it is not valid.

Diagnosing mental health is not the same as diagnosing heart disease, diabetes, or a broken bone. Mental health symptoms show up differently from person to person.  Diagnosing a mental health concern is subjective because it is based on each person’s perspective and how they communicate it to the counselor.  How the counselor interprets the information is also subjective. However, just because the information is subjective does not mean the struggle is any less valid.  People experience deep emotional pain throughout their life; therapy helps to validate the struggle to heal.

3. Myth – Talking about my problems in therapy is too hard and not worth it.

No one loves talking about their emotions, not even counselors. Talking about our emotional pain is uncomfortable. But by talking about hard things, we learn to identify our emotions and how we are struggling.  Therapy teaches us how to cope.  Nancy Gibbs said, “With challenge comes change.” When we get uncomfortable in therapy with the support of a therapist, we become stronger.  A good therapist will provide you with a supportive and non-judgmental environment to heal.  

4. Myth – Therapy is a waste of time when I can just take a pill that will help. 

Treatment for mental health varies depending on the individual and their needs.  Medication can help; however, it is most effective when used in conjunction with therapy.  Medication helps calm the intensity of emotions, so in therapy, you can explore the root of your struggles, learn how to cope, and heal.

5. Myth – Individuals with a mental health diagnosis are violent, crazy, and/or dangerous

Unfortunately, the media misrepresents mental health in the news and often portrays individuals with mental health struggles as violent, crazy, and/or dangerous.  Based on a study done by Victim Support, an organization built to support victims of abuse, only 3%-5% of individuals with a mental health diagnosis are considered “violent.” In fact, those diagnosed with a mental health concern are ten times more likely to be the victims of a violent crime.  The majority of individuals who struggle with mental health are no more likely to be violent than the “average” person without a diagnosis.