Information about mental health is everywhere. With the advent of #MentalHealth, #MentalHealthMatters and similar hashtags, people are more aware than ever of the importance of good mental wellbeing. Two plus years of isolation due to Covid and rising inflation has left us exhausted, stressed and emotionally overwhelmed. Without our usual distractions we are forced to really look at ourselves; and some are realizing they don’t recognize who is looking back at them from the mirror.
We are realizing that we might not be “O.K” we might need some help. Where do we begin, how do we begin? All the unknowns and misconceptions about mental health and its treatment often acts as barriers to people getting the help they need. Clients often tell me after a few sessions that therapy is not what they thought it would be. I am always surprised at the myths & misconceptions that people have that kept them from seeking mental health support. Here are the ones that I heard most often:
1) Only really “Crazy People” go to a counselor
a. The fact is everyone needs someone to talk to. You don’t have to wait until you are in a full blown mental break before seeking help. We often see the signs but ignore them until we are in crisis. Many “regular” folks come to me for mental health support.
2) Seeing a counselor is proof that I am weak
a. Quite the opposite. It takes so much courage to ask for help. With all the misconceptions and fears people have about treatment, the ones who choose to reach out for help in spite of these are truly mavericks.
3) Addiction is a matter of will power
a. This is simply not true and quite frankly, dangerous. Depending on the substance being used, trying to detox on your own can be potentially life threatening. Substances like alcohol and benzodiazepines (benzos) may even require medical assistance during the detox process because of the dangers associated with the withdrawal symptoms.
4) People with mental health issues cannot hold a regular job
a. There are many examples of highly successful people who have a mental health diagnosis and continue to thrive. It is very possible to live a productive and successful life after being diagnosed and getting the treatment that works for you.
5) Mental Illness is not very common
a. This is one of the biggest myths. In fact, 1 in 4 people struggle with a mental health issues. According to Mental Health America, nearly 50 million Americans reported experiencing a mental health issue in 2019.
The bottom line is. You are not alone. You don’t have to suffer in silence. When will you decide to choose yourself?