Today’s blog post is focusing on a few myths vs facts surrounding mental health. It’s very common to be misinformed and read inaccurate information about mental health, so understanding what is true and what is not is necessary.

Myth: Children don’t experience mental health issues
Fact: Very young children can show early warning signs of mental health concerns. These mental health concerns can be caused by the interaction of biological, psychological, and social factors.
Half of all mental health disorders show first signs/symptoms before 14 years old. Unfortunately only half of those children struggling with their mental health are receiving the treatment they need.

Myth: Therapy and self-help are a waste of time. Why bother when you can just take medication?
Fact: Many individuals improve and do their best when they have and work with a support system during their healing process.

Myth: I can’t do anything for a person with a mental health issue.
Fact: Friends and family members make a huge difference. Friends and family can be important influences to help someone get the treatment they need by letting them know they are available to help, helping them access mental health services, refusing to define them by their diagnosis, and by helping them learn self-care and coping techniques.