Myth: Children cannot experience mental health problems
Fact: Even children may need mental health care and show symptoms for concern. More These problems are often diagnosable. They could be a result of psychological and social factors. Often, better attention by parents also help in treating the problems.
According to UNICEF, Mental health conditions constitute a major burden of disease for adolescents globally. In 2019, it was estimated that one in seven adolescents experience mental health conditions. This amounts to an estimated 175 million adolescent boys and girls globally, an increase of about 4 million since 2000.
Myth: Mental health problems are very rare
Fact: Mental health problems are very common. Today, atleast more than 900 million people (which is more than 10% of the global population) would be going through a mental illness. Amongst them, depression and anxiety disorders hold around 200-300 million people.
Myth: People with mental health problems are violent, agressive and unpredictable in nature.
Fact: Majority of people with mental health problems are not violent and no more likely to be violent than anyone else. Only a small percentage of violent activities can be attributed to people having a serious mental illness.
Infact, people with severe mental illnesses are much more likely to be victims of violent crime than anyone else.
Myth: Mental health problems indicates a weak personality
Fact: Mental health problems have nothing to do with being weak and many people need genuine help to get better. Many factors contribute to mental health problems. They include - biological factors, physical illness, injury, trauma, history of abuse or maybe even a family history of mental health problems.
Myth: Therapy and self-help are a waste of time
Fact: Treatment for mental health problems varies depending on the individual and could include a combination of both medication and therapy. Sometimes, deep conversations with trustworthy people can also act as medicines. Many individuals need the support of their loved one’s during the recovery process.
Myth: It is impossible to treat mental illnesses
Fact: Friends and family can make a huge impact. People surrounding a person in daily life can be very influential and help the person in receiving treatment by giving him/her priority and importance, sharing facts about mental health and not labelling the individual by terms such as “mad” or “crazy”. Promoting the emotional well-being of children and youth can lead to improved family life, higher productivity and even increased lifespan.