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Physical illness is terrible, but mental illness is also dangerous
for us. Most people try to ignore their mental illness because they don’t want
any more trouble, such as facing prejudices, being questioned by people, or
they don’t want to let it endanger their careers and relationships, so there is
a bad stigma about people with mental illness. It’s really important for them
to try to get help.
There are common misconceptions about mental illness that we need
to debunk so the stigma can be stopped.
1. People With Mental Illness Can’t Cope With Their Jobs
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Not really. In fact, they are just as productive as other
employees. It is said that they also have good attendance, as well as motivation,
good work, and job tenure on par with or greater than other employees.
2. Mental Illness Is Not Common
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Everyone can be affected by it, although we can also prevent it. Maybe
you think that you are alright, when you are actually just ignoring signs of
mental illness that you have, or you don’t realise that some of your own
families and friends are actualy fighting the battles inside their minds.
3. Mental Illness Is a Sign of Weakness
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Not at all. Mental strength has nothing to do with mental weakness.
Just as someone with diabetes could still be physically strong, someone with
depression can still be mentally strong. Anyone can make choices to build
mental strength, regardless of whether they have a mental health issue.
4. People With Mental Illness Are Violent and Dangerous
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On the contrary, they are more likely to be the victims of violence
rather than to be violent themselves. The American Psychological Association
reports that only 7.5% of crimes are directly related to symptoms of
mental illness. Poverty, substance abuse, unemployment, and homelessness
are among the other reasons why people commit violent acts. You may not realise
it, because most of the people with mental illness are highly active and
productive, maybe they have particular proclivity for hiding it.
5. Mental Illness is Permanent
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Is it? Not really. Most mental health problems are treateable. The
National Alliance on Mental Illness reports that between 70 and 90% of
individuals experience symptom relief with a combination of therapy
and medication. Complete recovery from a variety of mental health issues
is often possible. So don’t worry, there is always hope.
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