Debunking Mental Health Myths Pt 3
Another week, another myth buster! Mental health is often misunderstood and stigmatized. As a result I felt it was important to debunk common mental health myths and counter these myths with facts.
This week we are addressing the misconception that people who suffer from mental illness can simply ‘pull themselves out of it’.
Myth:
People with mental health can ‘pull themselves out of it’
Fact:
A mental illness is not caused by personal weakness and is not ‘cured’ by personal strength. It requires medical assistance, and self management tools. It’s not a switch that can be turned on and off, it’s a state of mind requiring healing and support.
Perhaps unlike other physical ailments, mental illness is easily stigmatized because it is almost an invisible disease. You can’t physically see it and if you have experienced it yourself, it may be difficult to understand it or empathize with those who suffer from it.
In the same way ee wouldn’t expect a person with a broken leg, or suffering from Cancer to just “snap out of it,” we shouldn’t expect a person to ‘snap’ their way out of a mental illness.
Many people struggling with mental illnesses really wish it was as simple as just snapping out of it. However, it isn’t that simple. This false idea is what keeps the stigma alive. It’s a lack of empathy, understanding, and knowledge about these conditions.
People seem to forget that mental illnesses are out of one’s control, just like you can’t control the flu. A broken arm is an obvious impairment and even if you haven’t experienced it, you can imagine the problems and pain by seeing it. The stigma surrounding mental illness prevents people who would get help from doing so due to fear of alienation from friends and/or families.
Speaking from experience, I can’t tell you how much I wish I could snap out of a fragile, self-depreciating mindset. I would have taken that option over mental upheaval any day, but it’s as easy as most people have made it sound. Its deeper than what we think or see, and sensitivity is paramount in helping others balance and manage a life riddled with mental illness.
