10 Myths and facts about mental illness

As a former mental health nurse and ward manager for many years in one of London’s busiest mental health settings I was used to the many misconceptions people (including carers, visitors, family and friends) had. Here are my top 10.

1. Mental illness won’t affect me.FACT – Mental illnesses are surprisingly common; they do not discriminate—they can affect anyone. Approximately 1 in 4peoplein theUKwill experience amental healthproblem each year. InEngland, 1 in 6peoplereport experiencing a commonmental healthproblem, such as anxiety anddepression, inanygiven week. (mind.org.uk)
2. People with mental illness are just weak.FACT: Mental health disorders are not a personal choice nor are they caused by personal weakness. Mental illness is a combination of 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 loved one or a job, can also contribute to the…