Mental Health Myths: Part 2

This is part two in the series Mental Health Myths. Read part one here.

There are many myths when it comes to mental health. Here, we take a look at a few more of these myths, and the facts related to them.

MYTH: People with mental illness are violent and dangerous.
FACT: Violence and its link to mental illness are sensationalized. It is much rarer than people think. Only 5% of violent crimes in the US are committed by People with serious mental illness. People with mental illness are 2.5 times more likely to be victims of violence, according to the National Alliance on Mental Health (NAMI).

MYTH: Mental health disorders don’t respond to treatment.
FACT: Treatment for each type of mental health issue and each individual person will vary. It may take time and trial and error to find the right approach, but treatment is possible.
Advanced Psychiatry Associates

MYTH: Children and adolescents don’t experience mental health issues.
FACT: Half of all mental conditions start by age 14.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)

MYTH: People with mental health issues cannot tolerate the stress of holding down a job.
FACT: That is not true. However, if someone with mental health challenges is not receiving treatment, it can impact all aspects of life, including employment.
SAMHSA

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