Myths About Persons Who Have Mental Illness
Myth 1: If persons with physical disabilities can cope on their own, persons
recovering from a mental illness should, too.
Fact: Most persons who have been through a disabling incident need help to return to normal functioning. Physical therapy often fills this role after a physical illness. Similarly,
mental health services are needed to recover from a mental illness.
Myth 2: Persons who have a mental illness are dangerous.
Fact: Persons who have come through a serious emotional and mental trauma and have returned to the community are apt, if anything, to be anxious, timid and passive. They rarely present a danger to the public.
Myth 3: But persons recovering from a mental illness could go "beserk" at any time.
Fact: Most persons who have a mental illness never went "beserk" in the first place. They are more likely to be withdrawn than wild and aggressive. Relapses tend to develop gradually as the stress of life erodes coping skills. People are taught to recognize their own patterns and seek help, and friends and family can be alert to needed support.
Myth 4: Persons recovering from a mental illness are bound to make second rate employees.
Fact: Many persons recovering from a mental illness make excellent employees. In
fact, employers frequently report that they out perform other workers in such areas as attendance and punctuality and are about equal in motivation, quality of work and job tenure.
Myth 5: Persons recovering from a mental illness may be able to work
successfully at low-level jobs but they aren't suited for really important or
responsible positions.
Fact: As individuals, their career potentials depend on their particular talents, abilities and experiences, as well as motivation. A number of political leaders, artists and others have achieved greatness despite a mental problem.
Myth 6: There is nothing we can do to help.
Fact: They way we act toward people can make a difference in their lives. When well functioning, hard working people with mental health problems are refused employment, housing or other opportunities because of false beliefs or stereotypes, we contribute to the problem, not the solution. We shape our own self esteem by the people around us. If you give us responsibility, we will feel responsible.