Debunking 5 Common Mental Health Myths

Through advocacy work, the courage of people sharing their mental health journeys through platforms like social media, documentaries, and podcasts, the inclusion of mental health initiatives and programs in schools and organizations across the country, conversations surrounding mental health are on the rise.

There is no question that mental health awareness is crucial and an integral component of healthcare as a whole. And when we keep conversations about mental health going, we help create resources and supports that are fundamentally needed for the well-being of our society.

With that being said, mental health is a vast and complex subject — and like anything that gains popularity in mainstream culture, it’s easy for misconceptions to form. Debunking these myths can further aid advocacy and encourage all of us to take care of our mental health in more concrete ways.

Myth #1: Mental health issues are caused by “weakness”

The truth: Mental health struggles can impact anyone. It’s not just about whether someone has a disorder or not. Mental health is a layered entity that encompasses how we relate ourselves, the lens through which we see the world, our inner experiences, cognitions and emotions, our general sense of well-being and how we interact with others. To some extent, we all will struggle with our mental health at some point in our lives.

With that said, mental health disorders are real and are incredibly prevalent, impacting over 20% of the U.S. population (SAMHSA, 2023). Mental health disorders are the product of an intricate network of factors influencing one another at any given time. Disorders are influenced by social, emotional, psychological and biological factors, and it’s usually hard to pinpoint one singular cause. Social determinants of health (the various conditions that influence an individual’s health and well-being, such as access to housing, financial status, available resources and community, education, food and water, etc.) play a pivotal role. So, it’s safe to say that being “weak” really doesn’t play into the picture.

Myth #2: To be mentally healthy is to always feel good

The truth: As humans, we are wonderfully capable of feeling nuanced emotions. But the reality is that many human emotions are not particularly pleasant. A component of being mentally healthy consists of being able to experience a wide range of emotions — including emotions that might be seen as “negative.” Even though it might initially seem counterintuitive, it’s healthy and expected to feel “bad” sometimes.

For example, if you experience the loss of a beloved pet, it is likely that feelings of grief, sadness, frustration or emptiness may pop up. Knowing how to identify and then let yourself feel those emotions is a healthy part of coping, even if the process is painful and upsetting.

Our ability to feel a wide range of emotions allows us to experience the joyous, exciting and beautiful parts of life. And to that end, we are also vulnerable to experiencing life’s harder, sharper and difficult edges, too.

Myth #3: It’s always important to actively work on your mental health

There is a common notion that being mentally healthy requires hypervigilance, energy and attention towards our inner thoughts, feelings, experiences and moods. You may feel pressure to read all the self-help books, journal or meditate every morning, never miss a therapy session or always understand why you feel a certain way.

The truth: Taking care of your mental health doesn't require perfection. You actually don’t need to be doing all the “mental health” things all the time. These type of high expectations often backfire, creating added pressure, stress, anxiety and frustration. It isn’t realistic to always be focusing on mental health. In fact, it can be healthy to skip the morning routine, put down the self-help book, opt for a light and funny podcast, or cancel a therapy session. Learning how to be flexible is a good psychological practice, even when it comes to mental health work! Sometimes less is more.

Myth #4: Mental health progress is linear

The truth: Mental health progress doesn't follow a straight line, nor does it need to be perfect. You will experience setbacks while working on your mental health, and that doesn’t mean you aren’t making progress!

So whether you are working on developing healthier communication skills, creating new routines or hobbies, practicing setting boundaries, utilizing healthier coping strategies, fostering more positive self-beliefs, learning how to share your opinions or any of the other countless ways you might be working on your mental health, the journey won’t be without dips in the road.

Mental health work involves breaking old patterns and the creation of new ones. Humans are wired to seek comfort, and since comfort can be found in familiar patterns (even if they aren’t good for us), it’s understandable that you will sometimes resort to old patterns throughout your mental health journey. So don’t get down on yourself — it is impossible to expect yourself to always choose the new, healthier path!

Myth #5: Therapy is the only way to address mental health concerns

The truth: Although therapy is an incredible mental health resource for many, it isn’t the only way to nurture your mental health. Other beneficial ways to take care of your mental health include:

• Moving your body (going on walks, stretching, exercising, etc.)
• Spending time with community supports (neighbors, family, friends, church members, coworkers, etc.)
• Trying to incorporate nutritious foods into your diet
• Deep breathing, body scanning, meditation or other relaxation techniques that alleviate stress and anxiety
• Journaling, drawing, listening to music or any other creative way to express your feelings
• Paying attention to your alcohol and drug use
• Reducing time spent on social media
• Spending time doing things that bring you joy
• Paying attention to your sleep hygiene

Remember — addressing your mental health doesn’t need to be perfect for it to make a difference! Small steps and changes matter and add up over time.