This week I’m talking to you about the 5 myths of mental illness to shed some light on thought processes that may get in the way of someone seeking help.
Myth #1 “There's no cure and no recovery”
Sometimes the thought is “okay this must be the way I will always feel”, “this is just what being a mom is like”, “I must be the only one that feels this way”. These thoughts can lead us to feel hopeless, helpless, and alone. Or All or Nothing thinking “if I have depression I will always have depression”, “if I have anxiety I will always have anxiety.” The fact is 80% of women with postpartum depression can successfully heal and overcome their depression. The way towards healing looks different for everyone, but it is possible to overcome. You are worth it
Myth #2 “I’m crazy”
Sometimes the thought is that if I am reaching out for help because I am depressed, having suicidal thoughts, or anxious, that I must be crazy. Or “if I reach out for help or go to the emergency room, they will lock me up, confirming I am crazy”. But the fact is 1 in 5 adults suffer from a mental health condition. You can read my previous blog post on Your Mental Health Matters This means thousands of people go through their day with mental health struggles and this does not mean thousands of people are “crazy”. What it does mean is we are humans, with life struggles and experiences that cause us distress. It is okay to reach out for help, this will allow others to help you, and for you to have a chance at feeling better. Reduce the stigma.
Myth #3 “It’s expensive”
People don’t always prioritize their mental health due to the costs associated with it and will push it aside, until it becomes too distressing and unmanageable. Although research shows that there is evidence that preventive interventions are effective. But, think about this, if someone is sick, they will go to the doctor. For prevention, we are encouraged to go to a yearly check up. If someone has a toothache they will go to the dentist. The standard care is to go to the dentist 2 times a year for cleanings and a check up. But, if someone is struggling with their mental health, it takes on average 11 years before that person will seek professional help. We value healthcare in our country, but our mental health care is not valued as it should be. If you consider the costs of your relationships, getting through your day, meeting your goals, feeling content, and happier versus staying in distress and unhappy, then I think the costs of not getting help are great. If you weigh the costs and benefits from therapy, overall it is worth the investment of your time, when it will help you feel better and learn ways to manage how you feel in challenging situations. Don’t wait and continue to suffer thinking it will go away on its own.
Myth #4 “Can’t I just take a pill”
Sometimes the thought is that you can just take a medication and you will feel better. But the issue with this thinking is that yes, taking a medication to help ease the symptoms of your depression or anxiety can be helpful, it is not going to completely take away all your symptoms. People can make progress without the use of medications through psychotherapy as well. Research shows that the combination of medication management with counseling can have positive results. The decision to take medications can be decided with a psychiatrist or your primary care doctor, but I would recommend psychotherapy as well. Pregnant and women who are breastfeeding tend to be more cautious about medications and this is what makes therapy a great option. Discussions with your doctor and therapist will determine the best treatment approach to meet your needs.
Myth #5 “I am my diagnosis”
Sometimes people self identify with their mental health diagnosis to the point of being a hindrance to their progress. This goes along with what I referred to earlier in Myth #1, that if someone has been diagnosed with depression they will always have or suffer from depression. Yes, you have a risk factor that would make you more susceptible for having another depressive episode, but not a guarantee. I think by telling ourselves that you have this diagnosis and it will forever be this way, this can lead to feelings of hopelessness and helplessness that no matter what you do or try, things will not get better or you won’t feel better, or it can be used as an excuse for our behavior for how we might treat others in our life. I see a diagnosis as a way to help guide treatment, define goals our for therapy, and allow treatment to stay focused. Your diagnosis doesn’t have to define you.
If you or a loved one are struggling and need additional support, please seek out care.
I specialize in working with women who are looking for postpartum depression treatment helping them find joy, relief, and balance in their lives with new baby.
Reach out today and get the help you need for a happier, healthier you
With care,
Alison