Debunking mental health myths can help break down stigma and build a culture that encourages people of all ages to seek support when needed. Here are seven common misconceptions about mental health:
1. Myth: People with mental illness will have low intelligence.

Fact: Mental illness, like physical illness, can affect anyone regardless of intelligence level, social class or income level.
2. Myth: Mental health care is only needed when you have a mental illness

Truth: Everyone can benefit from proactively improving their quality of life and improving their mental health. Likewise, everyone can proactively adopt healthy habits to optimize physical health.
3. Myth: Poor mental health is not a big problem for teens. It’s just a phenomenon of mood swings due to hormonal disorders and actions to attract attention.

Fact: Teens often have mood swings, but that doesn’t mean they don’t struggle with mental health issues. 14% of adolescents in the world have mental health problems. Globally, suicide is the fifth most common cause of death among children 10-15 years old, and fourth among adolescents 15-19 years old. Half of all mental health illnesses begin to appear by age 14.
4. Myth: Preventing mental illnesses is impossible.

Fact: There are many factors that help protect us from developing mental illness, including strengthening social-emotional skills, seeking help and support early, and developing supportive relationships. , rich in love and warmth in the family, have a positive learning environment and healthy sleeping habits.

The ability to overcome adversity depends on a combination of these protective factors, and environmental or personal stressors alone will not necessarily cause mental health problems. Children and adolescents who adapt well to adversity often have good biological resistance and have good supportive relationships with family, friends and surrounding adults, which is a combination of protective factors that help children develop healthily.
5. Myth: Mental illness is a sign of weakness; Strong people will not suffer.

Truth: Mental illness is not related to weakness or lack of willpower. Having this disease is not something people can choose. In fact, admitting that you need mental health support requires great strength and courage. Everyone is at risk of mental illness.

6. Myth: Teens who perform well in school and have many friends will not have mental health problems because there is no reason for them to be depressed.

Fact: Depression is a common mental health condition caused by a complex of social, psychological and biological factors. Anyone can suffer from depression, regardless of socio-economic conditions or outward quality of life. Children who do well in school may experience anxiety due to feeling pressured to succeed, or experiencing family problems. Children may also experience depression or anxiety for reasons that are difficult to determine.
7. Myth: Poor parenting causes mental illness in adolescents.

Fact: Many factors – including poverty, unemployment, exposure to violence, migration, and other adverse circumstances and events – can affect the mental health and well-being of adolescents. adolescents, their caregivers and the relationship between caregivers and children. Adolescents living in a loving and supportive home can still experience mental health difficulties, similar to adolescents living in a family where caregivers need support to maintain their health. Maintain the best living environment for children’s healthy development. With support, caregivers can play an essential role in helping teens overcome any problems they face.