Myths

Busting mental health misinformation

Truth:

Teen mental health issues are very common. Half of all teens will experience mental health issues that are a bit more challenging to manage without support from peers, family, or sometimes professionals. Nearly 1 in 4 teens will experience more severe mental health issues.

Myth 1 Answer

Mental health is something all teens should keep in mind!

Truth:

Mental health issues are just as important as physical health issues. It is all health, and research shows that physical and mental health are directly linked. To be truly healthy you must take care of both your mental and physical well-being. Like an untreated sports injury, concussion, diabetes, or cancer, unaddressed mental health issues can interfere with your ability to socialize, succeed in school, or keep a job.

Did you know that physical pain can very often be caused by mental health issues like depression or anxiety, and physical diseases and injuries can cause mental distress? It’s true!

Truth:

Unlike physical health conditions that you can see – such as a broken arm – mental health is mostly invisible. Just because someone looks like they are doing just fine, it doesn’t mean they are. Asking questions is better than making assumptions.

Truth:

Medications are not required, but some people may choose to take them as part of their treatment. Research shows that therapy or counseling generally should be tried as a first step. If you don’t want to take medications, it is totally fine to ask for other options!
How to get help
More Resources

Truth:

Anyone who thinks you can just “get over it” doesn’t understand how mental health actually works. “Shake it Off” may be a great song, but not a great thing to tell someone with anxiety, depression, or any other mental health issue. For example, a person can want so badly to get out of bed or go hang out with friends, but they may not be able to when feeling down and depressed. And panic attacks can feel like you no longer have control over your own body for a short time. Kindness, listening, patience, and support are what can really help someone “get over it.”

Truth:

Asking for help can feel hard or scary, but there are people around you who want to help and may not realize what you’re going through. You have nothing to be ashamed of. Being a teen is HARD! No wonder with all the stress, demands, and expectations that some teens can use a boost. You’re definitely not the only one struggling. Talking to someone you trust can make all the difference.

Truth:

You never have to feel alone! There are lots of people who care and want to help. Talking to a trusted friend or family member can feel great...and who knows, maybe they have gone through something similar (remember, mental health issues are very common). Also, there are friendly, caring people just a phone call, text, or chat message away and ready day or night to listen, respect, and help support you no matter what you may be experiencing. You can now see a therapist right from your phone or tablet, without having to leave your home – how awesome is that!
How to get help
Crisis Resources

Truth:

If you are concerned about a friend, you absolutely should ask about their mental health! Support from a peer or family member is one of the very best things to help with mental health recovery. It is a common myth that talking about things like depression and suicide could make someone feel worse, but there is a ton of evidence that shows the opposite. It can feel awkward at first but asking and talking openly about feelings and thoughts – including those about suicide – can help save someone’s life. It is cool to think you can be a hero to someone just by helping them feel less alone. Mental health is completely normal, so let’s talk about it!
Recognize the signs
How to help a friend

Truth:

Many people mistakenly believe that people with mental health issues are dangerous or violent—this is an example of stigma, or negative attitudes and beliefs that are based on unhelpful stereotypes. What you see in the news or on social media about violence and mental health is often misinformation. The truth is, most people with mental health issues are NOT more violent than anyone else but they ARE much more likely to be victims of violence. And no, mental health issues are never contagious!