Mental health & prejudice
Most people have the wrong idea when it comes to mental health.
Article by : SpunOut.ie - Rating :
A recent national survey that a lot of stigma still surrounds mental health issues in Ireland. 85% of people surveyed agree that “anyone can experience a mental health problem”, but, 62% would not want others knowing if they themselves had a mental health problem. Read the report here.
It’s up to all of us to improve attitudes to mental health so that people are encouraged to not only look after their own mental health and to look out for others too.
Myths about mental health:
- You don’t get better from mental illness or depression. FALSE
Most people who suffer from a mental illness completely recover.
- Mental illness means you’re crazy. FALSE
The most “normal” people can have breakdowns or suffer from depression. It can be you, a parent, your boss or girlfriend. We don’t think of people with the flu as crazy so why people with a mental illness?
- People with a mental illness are aggressive. FALSE
Nope, suffering from a mental illness will make you no more aggressive or violent than the next person.
- Mental illness is rare and not normal. FALSE
Mental illness is very common, the problem is we don’t speak about it. 1 in 4 of us suffers from depression at some point in our lives and 1 in 10 teens experience serious depression.
- Depressed people are just lazy or weak-willed. FALSE
One of the symptoms of depression is exhaustion or an inability to concentrate. When someone is treated for depression they can regain their energy and enthusiasm for life.
Find out how you can help tackle mental health stigma.
See the help section for supportive information and contacts details of support organisations.
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