This Blog was kindly written by unpaid carer Rosario.
‘I am Rosario and I help care for my mother who lives with Schizoaffective Disorder. There are too many myths around mental illness that could increase stigma and spread misinformation. I wanted to share a few key ones and debunk them.
Myth 1: People with mental illnesses are violent and dangerous.
Fact: This black-and-white thinking promotes stigma and is often perpetuated by media portrayals. While individuals with severe mental illness may act unpredictably during episodes, the vast majority are not violent. In fact, people with mental illnesses are more likely to harm themselves than others, with suicide rates significantly higher than in the general population. In my experience visiting acute mental health wards, I’ve never encountered issues with violence, reinforcing that these settings can be safe and supportive.
Myth 2: Caring for someone with a mental illness is less demanding than caring for someone with a physical illness.
Fact: While caring for someone with a mental illness may differ from caring for someone with a physical illness, it can be equally demanding. There may be times when the person is stable and capable of self-care, but episodes can escalate quickly, requiring significant support. Carers must stay alert to symptoms, provide emotional support, assist with daily tasks like money management, liaise with medical professionals, and advocate for their loved ones. The emotional and practical demands can be substantial and ongoing.
Myth 3: People with mental illnesses are lazy and less intelligent.
Fact: This stereotype is both unfair and inaccurate. While mental illness can impair cognition and affect behaviour, it does not reflect a person’s intelligence or work ethic. Throughout history, many creative individuals have had mental illnesses, demonstrating that creativity and intelligence are not diminished by mental health challenges. Some individuals may struggle to maintain employment or live at a pace similar to others, but this does not imply laziness; it often reflects the debilitating nature of their condition.
Myth 4: If someone with a mental illness practiced self-care, they would get better.
Fact: While good habits like sleep, nutrition, and exercise can support overall well-being, they are not a cure for serious mental illness. These practices can be beneficial during recovery or times of stability, but they are insufficient when someone is in the midst of a severe episode. This myth can be harmful, leading to the misconception that individuals are not trying hard enough to manage their illness. Comprehensive medical treatment, including therapy and medication, is crucial in managing mental health conditions, and sometimes these treatments can fail or become less effective over time.’
If you or someone you care about is struggling with their mental health please reach out to the following helplines:
- Samaritans – you can call 24/7, 365 days a year to talk with someone about whatever you are struggling with. Call them on 116 123.
- Steps 2 Wellbeing Service – a free, confidential, NHS service for people aged 18 and over. They provide support for people registered at a Dorset GP surgery – North Dorset and West Dorset 0300 790 6828, Weymouth and Portland 0300 790 6828, Purbeck and East Dorset 0300 123 1120
- The Leonardo Trust – a free counselling service for unpaid carers in Dorset giving carers the opportunity to focus on themselves and talk to someone
- The Mental Health Foundation have advice on Mental Health in Later Life
- SANEline – If you’re experiencing a mental health problem or supporting someone else, you can call SANEline on 0300 304 7000 (4.30pm–10.30pm every day).
- Papyrus HOPELINEUK – If you’re under 35 and struggling with suicidal feelings, or concerned about a young person who might be struggling, you can call Papyrus HOPELINEUK on 0800 068 4141 (weekdays 10am-10pm, weekends 2pm-10pm and bank holidays 2pm–10pm), email or text 07786 209 697.
- Switchboard – If you identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender, you can call Switchboard on 0300 330 0630 (10am–10pm every day), email or use their webchat service. Phone operators all identify as LGBTQ+.
IN AN EMERGENCY CALL 999.
