MENTAL HEALTH & HIGH SCHOOL CURRICULUM > The Stigma of Mental Illness Myths and Realities of Mental Illness Dr. Stan Kutcher and Dr. Sonia Chehil © Dalhousie University, March 2007

Myths and Realities of Mental Illness: addressing Stigma These slides identify many of the common myths about mental illnesses and provide the correct information to dispel these myths Myths about mental illnesses contribute to the stigma about mental illnesses Learn and remember these “myth busters’ so that you can help decrease the stigma

So, what are your beliefs about Your beliefs inform the way you act So, what are your beliefs about Causes of mental illness? People with a mental illness? Treatments of mental illness?

People with mental disorders are usually violent People with mental disorders are too incompetent to make decisions for themselves.

People with mental disorders do not have feelings. People with mental disorders are not worthy human beings. People with mental disorders do not deserve the same social and civil rights as those held by others

REALITY Most people with mental disorders live productive and positive lives while receiving treatments for their mental illness Some people have severe and persistent mental disorders which respond poorly to current treatments (similar to all other illnesses)

REALITY Mental illness does not respect any boundaries of race, class or geography The majority of people have a friend, acquaintance or family member who has or has had a mental disorder

Mental illness is caused by the possession of demons or evil spirits Mental illness is caused by a curse bestowed on the individual either by a spiritual force or someone who possesses evil powers Mental illness is afflicted on those who must atone for past sins

Mental disorder is caused by the stresses of everyday life Mental illness reflects Karmic judgment or payback for evil deeds committed in past lives Mental disorder is a consequence of bad mothering or poor family environment Mental disorder is caused by the stresses of everyday life

REALITY The symptoms of mental illness are a result of abnormal brain functioning Mental illness is a brain disorder Mental illness is rarely if ever caused by stress alone

Treatments are not usually effective People who are mentally ill will not get better Mental illnesses are too difficult to treat

Psychiatric medications are addictive Vitamins and rest are effective treatments for mental disorders.

REALITY There are many effective treatments for most mental disorders Most people with mental illnesses get better – many recover and stay well Mental illnesses are not more difficult to treat than other sicknesses

REALITY Psychiatric medications used properly are not addictive Effective treatments are determined by scientific evidence Diet and exercise are important for health but are not treatments for mental disorders