On World Mental Health Day, it is crucial to address the misconceptions surrounding mental health, which often prevent individuals from seeking the support they need.

1. Mental illness is caused by evil spirits or supernatural powers: This myth is deeply rooted in cultural beliefs. However, mental illnesses are medical conditions, often influenced by genetics, environment, and biology.
2. Mental illnesses are untreatable: With the right treatment, many people lead fulfilling lives. Therapy, medication, and support systems can significantly improve mental health.
3. Lack of willpower causes mental illness: Mental illnesses are not a choice. They are complex conditions requiring proper care and understanding, not judgment.
4. Marriage can cure mental illness: Marriage or any other external factor cannot "cure" mental illness. Professional treatment is essential.
5. Mentally ill persons belong to hospitals: Not all mental illnesses require hospitalization. Many can be managed with outpatient therapy and lifestyle adjustments.
6. Mental health problems are seen only in the poor and uneducated: Mental illness affects people across all socioeconomic backgrounds.
7. People with mental health issues cannot be productive: With proper treatment, individuals with mental illness can work, lead productive lives, and contribute meaningfully to society.
8. Mental illness is a sign of weak character: Struggling with mental illness does not indicate weakness. Mental health is complex and requires compassion.
9. Once mentally ill, always mentally ill: Many people recover fully or learn to manage their condition effectively.
10. Children don’t suffer from mental illness: Children can and do experience mental health challenges, which need early intervention.
11. Mental illnesses are the result of bad parenting: Mental health conditions are caused by a complex interplay of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors.
12. Mental illnesses are contagious: Mental health conditions are not infectious. They cannot be "caught" through contact or interaction with someone experiencing mental illness.
13. Attempting suicide is a sign of bravery/cowardice: Suicide is neither an act of bravery nor cowardice. It's a tragic outcome of intense emotional pain, hopelessness, and untreated mental health conditions.
14. Mentally ill people are violent and dangerous: Most people with mental illnesses are not violent. This harmful stereotype leads to fear, stigma, and misunderstanding, but in reality, individuals with mental health conditions are more likely to be victims than perpetrators.
15. Only people without friends need therapy: Therapy is not limited to people without social support. It helps individuals cope with various life challenges, enhance self-awareness, and improve emotional well-being, regardless of their social network.

And Myths are endless………

By challenging these myths, we can foster a more compassionate and informed society that supports mental well-being for all.

Murtuza Railwaywala

Psychologist and Psychotherapist