Mental Health Myths You Should Stop Believing

Debunking Misconceptions to Support Healing and Access to Care

Despite growing awareness and public conversation around mental health, myths and misunderstandings still prevent many people from seeking the support they need. These myths contribute to stigma, shame, and isolation—and can delay diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

At City Behavioral Health, we believe education is a powerful tool for change. Below, we debunk some of the most common mental health myths with facts grounded in research and clinical experience.

Myth #1: “Mental health problems are a sign of weakness.”

Reality:
Mental health conditions are not character flaws or personal failings. They are medical and psychological conditions influenced by genetics, brain chemistry, environment, trauma, and life stressors. Just as no one chooses to have diabetes or asthma, no one chooses to live with anxiety, depression, or PTSD.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), nearly 1 in 5 U.S. adults experiences mental illness each year—regardless of strength, background, or willpower. Source: https://www.nimh.nih.gov

Myth #2: “If you’re functioning, you don’t need therapy.”

Reality:
High-functioning individuals can still experience emotional distress, trauma, or burnout. Many people appear “fine” externally while struggling internally. Therapy isn’t just for crises—it’s also for growth, self-discovery, and learning to navigate stress more effectively.

At City Behavioral Health, we regularly work with students, professionals, caregivers, and creatives who are managing responsibilities but want support with mood, relationships, or emotional regulation.

Myth #3: “Talking about your problems won’t change anything.”

Reality:
Research consistently shows that talking with a trained mental health professional can reduce symptoms, improve functioning, and increase self-awareness. Evidence-based therapies like CBT, DBT, and prolonged exposure are designed to translate emotional insight into behavioral change.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) affirms that psychotherapy—particularly cognitive and behavioral approaches—can produce measurable, lasting improvements. Source: https://www.samhsa.gov/ebp-resource-center

Myth #4: “Therapy is only for people with serious mental illness.”

Reality:
Therapy helps people at all levels of distress—not just those with diagnoses like bipolar disorder or schizophrenia. It can support anyone navigating grief, life transitions, interpersonal conflict, parenting, or a desire to better understand themselves.

CBH’s services range from intensive programming (like The Nimble Track) to in-home coaching and skills groups, all tailored to varying levels of need.

Myth #5: “Medication is a cure-all, so therapy isn’t necessary.”

Reality:
While medication can be essential for some, it is often most effective when combined with therapy. Medication can help stabilize mood or reduce symptoms, but therapy addresses the underlying thought patterns, behaviors, and emotional responses.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, the combination of therapy and medication is often more effective than either alone for treating depression and anxiety disorders. Source: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/mental-health-medications

Myth #6: “Once you start therapy, you’ll need it forever.”

Reality:
Therapy is not a life sentence. It’s a flexible process, and the duration depends on your goals, needs, and progress. Some people benefit from short-term therapy focused on specific challenges. Others choose longer-term support for deeper emotional work. At City Behavioral Health, we offer nimble treatment planning to match each person’s journey.

Myth #7: “Children and teens are too young for therapy.”

Reality:
Children and adolescents can greatly benefit from age-appropriate therapeutic support. Early intervention can reduce the risk of long-term mental health challenges. At CBH, we work with youth and families to address executive function issues, emotion regulation, school difficulties, and more—using approaches tailored to developmental needs.

Myth #8: “You should be able to fix things on your own.”

Reality:
Mental health struggles are complex and often require support. Seeking therapy is not a failure—it’s a form of strength. Just as you would go to a doctor for a broken bone, reaching out to a therapist is a smart and proactive step toward healing.

Final Thoughts

Reality:
Believing myths about mental health can keep us stuck in silence and suffering. The truth is: therapy works, support is available, and you are not alone. At City Behavioral Health, we provide compassionate, evidence-based care designed to meet you where you are—with the tools, insight, and structure to help you move forward.