Partner Partner Content Mental Health Awareness: Myths vs. Facts

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly one in five U.S. adults lives with a mental illness in any given year. In St. Clair County, that means thousands of our neighbors, coworkers, friends, and family members are affected. At SCCCMH, we work to not only provide services but also educate the public and dismantle the myths that keep people from seeking help. Outdated stereotypes and misinformation remain among the most significant barriers to care. 

“At St. Clair County Community Mental Health, we know that stigma is often one of the greatest barriers to treatment. Sharing facts and debunking myths can create a community where people feel safe reaching out for help. Education is just as important as treatment for building hope.” Comments Deb Johnson, CEO at SCCCMH. 

Myth 1: Mental illness is rare.

Fact: Mental illness is common, and most people will be touched by it at some point. Depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders are among the most prevalent health conditions in America. They cut across every age group, income level, and background. Recognizing how common mental illness is helps break down the “us vs. them” thinking and builds empathy. 

Myth 2: People with mental health conditions are dangerous. 

Fact: The majority of individuals with mental health conditions are not violent.
In fact, people with serious mental illnesses are far more likely to be victims of crime than perpetrators. Linking mental illness to violence creates fear and stigma that make it harder for people to come forward for help. 

“One of the most harmful misconceptions is that mental illness equals violence,” states Kathleen Gallagher, LMSW, Chief Clinical Officer at SCCCMH. “The truth is, people living with mental health conditions are much more likely to be harmed than to cause harm. Our focus should be on compassion and connection, not fear.” 

Myth 3: Mental illness is a sign of weakness.

Fact: Mental illness is a medical condition, not a character flaw.
Just as diabetes or heart disease result from complex factors, mental health conditions arise from a combination of genetics, biology, environment, and life experiences. Strength is not about never struggling; it’s about recognizing when help is needed and taking steps toward recovery. 

Myth 4: Children don’t experience mental health problems.

Fact: Mental health conditions often begin in childhood or adolescence.
Half of all mental health conditions begin by age 14, and three-quarters by age 24. Early identification and treatment are critical to long-term success. That’s why SCCCMH partners with local schools and youth programs to provide screenings, education, and support. 

“We see every day that mental health challenges don’t wait until adulthood. Many begin in childhood or adolescence.” States Heidi Fogarty, LMSW, Child and Family Services Director at SCCCMH. “The earlier we identify those needs and support families, the better the long-term outcomes. Kids do best when they know they are not alone and that help is available.” 

Myth 5: Once you have a mental illness, you can’t recover. 

Fact: Recovery is not only possible, it’s happening every day.
Individuals can and do thrive with access to appropriate treatment, support, and community resources. Recovery looks different for everyone, but the focus is always on hope, empowerment, and living a meaningful life. 

“I’ve walked alongside people who felt like they would never get better, and I’ve seen them build lives filled with hope and meaning.” Comments Gallagher. “Recovery is not just possible; it happens every day. Sometimes all it takes is the right support and someone who believes in you.” 

Myth 6: Therapy and medication don’t work.

Fact: Evidence-based treatments are highly effective.
Therapies like cognitive-behavior therapy, peer support, and medication management have been proven to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life. Finding the right treatment plan may take time, as with any health condition, but the results are life-changing. 

Myth 7: Talking about mental health makes it worse.

Fact: Honest conversations save lives.
Silence fuels stigma. Talking openly about mental health creates understanding and helps people feel less alone. Asking someone if they’re okay – or encouraging them to seek help – can make all the difference. 

“Talking about mental health doesn’t make things worse; it opens doors,” states Fogarty. “When someone feels heard and supported, it can be the first step toward healing. A simple conversation can change the path someone is on.” 

Why busting myths matters

Myths and stigma don’t just affect attitudes; they affect outcomes. Fear of judgment often delays treatment, and untreated mental illness can worsen over time. Challenging misconceptions opens doors to earlier care, healthier families, and stronger communities. 

At SCCCMH, we see firsthand how education empowers people to seek help. Our staff are committed to providing direct services and being advocates and educators across St. Clair County. 

“When people understand what mental illness really is, a medical condition, not a character flaw, they are more willing to seek help early. Education changes outcomes. It allows us to intervene sooner, provide effective treatment, and prevent crises before they happen,” states Gallagher. 

How you can help

• Learn the facts. Up-to-date information is available from reliable sources, such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and the National Institute of Mental Health. 
• Challenge stigma. Speak up when you hear myths or stereotypes. 
• Support one another. A kind word or gesture can make a huge impact. 
• Know the resources. SCCCMH offers many programs for children, adults, and families. 

If you or someone you know needs support, call SCCCMH’s Access Line at 810-488-8888 or visit scccmh.org. Help is available, and recovery is possible. 

Closing Thought

Educating ourselves about mental health and wellness is a reminder that facts, not myths, should guide how we view, talk about, and respond to mental health challenges.

“Everyone of us has a role to play in breaking down the misconceptions of mental health,” says Johnson. “The more we replace myths with compassion and understanding, the stronger and healthier our community becomes.” Together, by replacing stigma with compassion and misunderstanding with knowledge, we can create a healthier, more connected community for everyone.