Myth vs. Fact: Mental Health Edition

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. What a better time to educate, reflect, and dismantle the many myths that surround mental health. Despite growing conversations about mental well-being, misinformation still spreads stigma and prevents people from getting the support they need. Let’s break down some of the most common myths and replace them with the facts everyone deserves to know. 

Myth: Mental health problems are rare.

Fact: 1 in 5 adults experience a mental health condition each year.

Mental health challenges are far more common than most people realize. You are not alone.

Myth: People with mental illnesses are violent and dangerous.

Fact: Individuals with mental health conditions are more likely to be victims of violence, not perpetrators.

Fear-driven stereotypes only add to stigma and misunderstanding.

Myth: Mental health issues are a sign of personal weakness.

Fact: Mental illnesses are legitimate medical conditions, not character flaws.

Just like heart disease or diabetes, mental health conditions require understanding and care -not judgment.

Myth: If you just “try harder,” you can snap out of it.

Fact: Mental health conditions often require professional support, treatment, and time.

Healing is not about willpower, it’s about getting the right tools and help. You should not have to go through it alone. 

Myth: Therapy is only for people with “serious” mental illnesses.

Fact: Therapy can benefit anyone.

You don’t have to be in crisis to seek therapy. It can be preventive, supportive, and empowering.

Myth: Once you start taking medication, you’re on it for life.

Fact: Treatment plans are highly individualized.

Some people need medication temporarily; others might use it long-term. What matters is finding what works best for you in partnership with a healthcare provider.

Myth: Therapy is just talking about your problems — it doesn’t really help.

Fact: Evidence-based therapies (like CBT, DBT, and EMDR) provide proven tools to build resilience and healing.

Therapy isn’t just venting; it’s an active, empowering process.

Myth: Depression is just sadness.

Fact: Depression affects emotional, physical, and cognitive well-being.

Symptoms can include fatigue, irritability, changes in sleep and appetite, and a profound sense of hopelessness. It’s far more complex than “feeling sad.”

Myth: Anxiety is just worrying too much.

Fact: Anxiety disorders involve intense fear and can interfere with daily life.

Anxiety is not a choice; it’s a real, often overwhelming, medical condition.

Myth: High-performing employees or students don’t struggle with mental health.

Fact: Mental health challenges affect people of all success levels.

Achievement on the outside doesn’t always match someone’s inner experience.

Myth: Mental health problems don’t happen in [insert community].

Fact: Mental health affects all people across race, culture, age, and background.

No one is immune. Access to culturally competent care is crucial.

And probably the most important one:

Myth: Strong people don’t need therapy.

Fact: Seeking help is a sign of strength.

Strength means recognizing when you need support and taking action.

Mental health myths do real harm.  They can delay treatment, isolate people, and reinforce stigma. This Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s commit to replacing myths with facts, silence with conversation, and stigma with understanding. Everyone has mental health.

Everyone deserves support.

If you or someone you know needs help, reach out. Healing is possible, and you are never alone. Anchor Counseling can help you find the care that is best for you.