Mental health feels almost like a buzzword now. With high-profile people coming out and saying that they have mental health problems, it has opened up the conversation for everyone. Unfortunately, for far too long, people have believed some big lies when it comes to mental health. These lies can keep people from getting the help they need when their mental health is suffering. For some people, this can have dangerous consequences. People who suffer from depression may become suicidal. So here are some myths about mental health, and the truth behind them.

No One I Know Struggles With Their Mental Health

You’d be surprised to learn who among your circle of friends is dealing with anxiety, depression, and even PTSD. Many of them might even secretly be on medication or seeking out counseling. The truth is that almost everyone experiences some levels of mental health problems in their life. Some of them are short-lived, but other people require more intensive help. Whether your friends deal with mental health problems or not, if you’re struggling, then you need help. It’s important to seek counsel when you are experiencing intense sadness, heart-pounding anxiety, and when you feel disconnected and disjointed.

Men Who Deal With Mental Health Problems are Weak

Men are supposed to be strong and the unfortunate stigma that has been perpetuated in the past is that strong men don’t deal with mental health problems. This causes major issues in relationships and for employee mental health. Work-related stressors are a big cause of mental health problems in men. Too much work, too many work hours, and even not enough pay can cause serious trauma. The lie that men shouldn’t seek mental health care is responsible in part for the rise in heart disease and other physical health problems that men experience. Grief, trauma and Men should and need to seek out mental health care if they are experiencing mental distress.

Mental Health Issues Don’t Affect Children

They do. In fact, more children than ever before suffer from anxiety, depression, and other mental health problems. It’s important to get the professional help you’re your children if you notice any of the major signs of depression. Lack of interest in activities, drastic eating changes, and overall changes in disposition are just a few of the symptoms of depression to look for.

I Can Work Just Fine With My Mental Health Challenges

Yes and no. Being a depressed employee will make it difficult for you to get out of bed in the morning, get to work on time, and do your work effectively. It will impact everything you do. Depression affects how you see yourself and how you interact with others. Anxiety might make it difficult to make important decisions and can lead to panic attacks and other mental health challenges. Getting help for your mental health will help you work better and feel better about yourself and your life.

My Mental Health Issue Will Kill Me

Some people think that panic attacks are deadly, when in fact, they are not. Most mental health conditions are not deadly in and of themselves, but they can lead to deadly behaviors. Being sad and depressed won’t harm you on its own, it’s when people feel hopeless and try to take action to end their life that makes this mental health issue dangerous. For people with manic disorders, they can have erratic behavior that could put them into harmful situations. No matter what mental health challenge you are dealing with, it’s important to get professional mental health care when you need it.

Pills Will Make My Mental Health Better

While doctor-prescribed medications can help people manage many aspects of their mental health condition, they will not fix the problem 100%. Many mental health issues involve stressors, traumas, and body chemistry. Some conditions are temporary due to hormonal changes as in the instance of postpartum depression. Medications will help moms get through the toughest stages of depression so they can be present for their child and family. As people age, they might need additional hormonal support alongside other prescriptions to aid their mental health. Some individuals will also benefit from therapy, counseling, and other one-on-one mental health services.