Mental Health Misconceptions: Myths on Depression, Anxiety & ADHD

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Have you ever thought that there are still many people who choose to accept misconceptions about mental health even if the person assessing mental health has knowledge? Conversations about mental wellness are increasingly common, although one of the myths which misleads a great deal of people in everyday life is the strong denial of depression being sadness and anxiety overthinking. Such myths regarding mental health are likely to deprive individuals of a chance to obtain assistance, delay diagnoses and create unwarranted shame or guilt. It is time to clear these old notions and find out the truth behind such disorders as depression, anxiety and ADHD. 

Introduction

In the current society, the discourse of mental well-being has become more transparent and extensive. Nevertheless, despite the heightened mental health awareness, there are quite a number of people who fall prey to the mental myths that have been embedded. These misunderstandings can cause individuals to fail to obtain the help that they need and cause unjustified stigma.   

Knowledge of Mental Health Misconceptions 

Mental Health Misconceptions: Mental health misconceptions refer to the myths or misconception of mental illness and emotional well being. It can be credited to ignorance, cultural stigma or media distortion.   

Reasons Why Misconceptions Persist: Mental health is an under-rated problem because of social stigma, misinformation, and generation gap. The majority of societies consider mental illness to be a taboo.   

Some of the Myths about Depression  

Myth 1 Depression is nothing more than sadness: The fact that depression is nothing more than extreme sadness is one of the most pernicious myths about depression. The thing is that depression is a complex mental disorder, which is comprised of chemical disorders, the lack of interest in life, constant emptiness, and exhaustion.   

Myth 2 You Can Snap Out of Depression: It is a gross misconception of mental health when one tells a depressed person to cheer up or be positive. Depression is not a choice, it is a disease which requires treatment, medication or both. 

Myth 3 Adults are the only ones who are depressed:  Depression does not differentiate. It can be experienced by teenagers, children and even older adults. The popular myths on depression tend to overlook the reality that children can exhibit various symptoms such as being irritable, lack of concentration or withdrawal instead of being depressed.   

Misperceptions about Anxiety   

Myth 1 Anxiety Is Just Overthinking: It is important to note that although all people experience anxiety, an anxiety disorder is not a simple anxiety but a temporary worry. The myths and facts about anxiety reveal that constant anxiety may cause restlessness, sleeping problems, panic attacks and also the physical symptoms such as rapid heartbeat. One does not think too much but it is the reaction of the brain to the heightened stress levels. 

Myth 2 -Anxious people are weak: It is one of the most dangerous myths about mental health. Anxiety disorders have biological, psychological and environmental causes.  They do not imply any form of weakness or cowardice. Most of the anxious people are well-to-do in their career and relationships and are daily grappling with their anxieties. 

Myth 3 -Anxiety Is Not a Big Issue: The anxiety is diminished through the myths about mental health. The anxiety, which is not treated, may result in depression, drug abuse and even physical ailments.   

Myths and Misconceptions of ADHD 

Another mental health condition that has been misunderstood alongside the wrong mental health misconceptions is Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Time to reveal the actual facts. 

Myth 1- ADHD is a Disease of Childhood: It is certainly not so, because ADHD is a disorder that remains life-long even when the person has grown up. 

Adults with ADHD can experience concentration problems, time management problems and organization problems.   

Myth 2 -ADHD is bad parenting: This myth is a false accusation of the parents.  

ADHD is not a behavioral problem, but rather a neurodevelopmental disorder that arises as a result of poor upbringing.   

Myth 3 -Individuals with ADHD are unable to focus whatsoever: 

This is a false impression. ADHD patients may have a hyperfocus which is a deep concentration in activities that they are interested in. The stigma concerning mental health issues surrounding ADHD can cause one to feel misunderstood but with the knowledge, society can learn to treat them better. 

The Impact of Mental Health Misconceptions 

The effects of mental health misconceptions are extensive.  The effects of stigma and misunderstanding can result in shame, delayed diagnosis and missed symptoms. Depressed or anxious people may avoid sharing their discomfort, if they are worried about being called crazy or lazy. So, they hide their anguish. 

End the Stigma and Facilitate Awareness  

Discuss emotional wellness in your home, in your schools and at workplaces. Discussing the mental health misconceptions makes the conversation normal and individuals can discuss their struggle without fear of being judged. 

Role of Education and Media: The contribution of the media in shaping up the perception of the people is immense. When movies, television programs, and news media take a responsible approach to mental illness, it can be misconceived. The common myths about depression and anxiety could be also proven wrong by use of education programs and awareness campaigns. 

The Support of a Person in Struggle: Be a non-judgmental listener, be empathetic and seek professional assistance. Even basic gestures of empathy can help a great deal to alleviate the mental health misperceptions load. Demonstrate to the people around you that asking for help is a symbol of power rather than a sign of surrendered courage. It’s a necessary step for us to become truly one in the fight for ensuring a significant difference. Breaking mental health stigma will only be eliminated through openness, compassion and persistence. 

Conclusion  

We are determined to eliminate the myths about mental health at Athena Behavioral Health by dealing with the myths about depression, anxiety, and ADHD. Stigma-free society, promotion of understanding and empathy will create a society where healing flourishes. Athena Behavioral Health provides expert mental wellness services to individuals who require help or have friends and families requiring assistance. To access the services, contact them today.