Mental Health Myths and Facts
People with mental health conditions are often violent or dangerous.
Myth - People with mental health conditions are more likely to be victims of violence rather than perpetrators. The majority of individuals with mental health conditions are not violent and can lead healthy, productive lives with the right support and treatment.
What self-care strategy involves taking a few minutes each day to focus on your breath and clear your mind?
Mindful Breathing or Meditation – Practicing mindful breathing or meditation for just a few minutes each day can help calm the mind, reduce anxiety, and improve emotional well-being by encouraging relaxation.
What percentage of adults in the U.S. will experience a mental illness in any given year?
20%
This symptom involves having difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, often associated with stress or anxiety.
Insomnia
What is TimelyCare?
A telehealth platform provides students with access to on-demand counseling, therapy, and psychiatry services, often at no additional cost.
Therapy is only for people with severe mental health conditions.
Myth - Therapy is beneficial for everyone, not just those with severe mental health conditions. It can help people manage stress, improve relationships, enhance self-awareness, and cope with everyday challenges, even if they don’t have a diagnosable condition.
What self-care activity involves writing your thoughts, feelings, and experiences?
Journaling – Writing down your thoughts and feelings can help process emotions, gain insight, and reduce stress. It’s a great tool for self-reflection and can support mental clarity.
What percentage of people who experience mental health issues never seek help or treatment?
This symptom involves feeling extremely fatigued or physically drained, even after rest or sleep, and is often linked to depression or chronic stress.
Exhaustion
TimelyCare offers this type of service, providing students with the ability to access a licensed therapist or psychiatrist virtually for mental health support, even if they are in different time zones.
TeleMental - Virtual Mental Health Counseling
Mental health is just as important as physical health.
Fact - Mental health is just as important as physical health. Mental and physical well-being are interconnected, and taking care of your mental health is essential for overall wellness. Good mental health can improve quality of life, enhance relationships, and increase resilience to stress and challenges.
What self-care practice involves engaging in activities that bring you joy or relaxation?
Hobbies and Leisure Activities – Engaging in hobbies or leisure activities helps reduce stress, improve mood, and foster creativity. Whether it’s reading, gardening, or doing art, these activities provide a mental break and promote overall well-being.
What mental health condition is one of the most common causes of suicide, affecting millions globally?
Depression
This symptom is common in individuals with bipolar disorder, where they may experience periods of intense energy, and impulsive behavior.
This TimelyCare service provides access to virtual consultations with medical professionals for non-emergency health concerns, such as colds, flu, and other common illnesses, along with prescription management.
TeleHealth - Virtual Medical Visits
Mental health problems are a sign of weakness.
Myth - Mental health issues are not a sign of weakness. They are common medical conditions that can affect anyone, regardless of strength or character. Seeking help for mental health is a sign of strength and self-awareness, not weakness.
What self-care activity involves protecting your emotional and mental well-being from others?
Setting Boundaries – Setting clear, healthy boundaries with friends, family, and coworkers is an essential self-care strategy. It helps protect your energy, manage stress, and ensure that your emotional and mental health needs are respected.
What percentage of people with mental health conditions experience their first symptoms by the age of 14?
50%
This symptom involves intense, uncontrollable fear or dread, often accompanied by physical symptoms like a racing heart, sweating, and trembling.
Panic Attacks
TimelyCare provides this type of support, allowing students to speak with a counselor anytime, without needing an appointment.
TalkNow (On-Demand Counseling)
Medication is the only solution for mental health disorders.
Myth - While medication can be an important part of treatment for some mental health conditions, it is not the only solution. Therapy, lifestyle changes, support systems, and self-care practices can also play crucial roles in managing mental health effectively.
What self-care activity involves releasing tension from your body, help alleviate stress and improve both your physical and mental health?
Physical Exercise – Regular exercise, such as yoga, stretching, walking, or any physical activity, helps release endorphins, reduce stress, and improve both mental and physical health. It doesn’t require intense workouts, even light activity helps boost mood and energy.
What percentage of people who die by suicide have a diagnosable mental health condition at the time of their death?
90%
This symptom involves losing interest in daily activities, isolating oneself from others, and a lack of motivation, often seen in people struggling with depression.
Social Withdrawal
How many therapy sessions are AVC students offered for free each year through TimelyCare?
12