Myth 1: Mental illness is the same as mental retardation.

Advertisement

Fact: These are two different disorders; retardation is generally associated with a limitation in mental functioning as well as difficulties with certain daily living activities. With persons who suffer from psychiatric disabilities, the limitations in intellectual functioning vary as it does across the general public.

Myth 2: Mental disorders are a figment of one's imagination.

Fact: Mental illnesses are real. Mental illnesses and brain disorders cause suffering, disability and can even shorten life (this is evident from episodes of depression after a heart attack, liver disease due to alcohol abuse and attempted suicide). Mental illness can be diagnosed and treated before it is too late. The symptoms are a sign of real illness.

Myth 3: Mental disorders are caused by a weakness in character.

Fact: Mental disorders are caused by biological, psychological and social factors. Research has shown genetic and biological factors are associated with schizophrenia, depression and alcoholism. Social influences such as loss of a job or loved one can contribute to various disorders.

Myth 4: Recovery from mental illness is not possible.

Fact: Long-term research has shown that the majority of people with mental illness show genuine improvement over time and lead stable lives. There are many treatments available to individuals who suffer from mental illness such as medications, therapy and rehabilitation.

Myth 5: Mental illness only affects people in rich countries.

Fact: Mental and brain disorders are a concern for people in developed countries as well as those in developing nations. In a study of 27 countries conducted by the WHO (World Health Organization) no country was found to be free of schizophrenia. Alcohol abuse is another commonly found disorder.

Myth 6: Mentally ill and mentally retarded individuals are dangerous or violent.

Fact: The vast majority of these individuals are not dangerous or violent. This myth is reinforced by portrayals in the media of people with mental illness as frequently violent. It is important to eliminate discrimination and replace it with positive images and messages and a greater awareness of what mental health really is.

Related Articles
Post a question to Cybershrink.
Facts about mental illness

Rate this article Poor 1 2 3 4 5 Excellent

JOBS

Senior Secretary Gauteng - North/Sandton Infrastructure Resource Gauteng - Johannesburg Management Accountant R450,000-500,000 Per Annum Cost To Company Gauteng - Johannesburg Financial Manager R350,000-400,000 Per Annum Cost To Company Gauteng - Johannesburg Financial and Project Accountant R300,000-360,000 Per Annum Cost To Company Gauteng - Johannesburg Financial Accountant R380,000-420,000 Per Annum Cost To Company Gauteng - Johannesburg SSIS Business Intelligence Specialists (SSIS; SSAS) R350,000-500,000 Per Annum Cost To Company Gauteng - North/Sandton Financial Accountant R350,000-450,000 Per Annum Cost To Company Gauteng - South Find more jobs Register your CV Post a job