MEANTAL HEALTH FACTS MYTH “MENTAL ILLNESS IS A LACK OF WILL POWER. IT IS A WEAKNESS.” “MENTAL ILLNESS IS NOT A REAL ILLNESS. IT IS NOT A DISEASE.” “YOU WILL BE DRUGGED AND NEVER BE THE SAME.” “PEOPLE WITH MENTAL ILLNESS CAN NOT WORK.” “PEOPLE WITH MENTAL CAN NOT LIVE INDEPENDENTLY IN THE COMMUNITY.” FACT Mental illness is a real disease.An individual diagnosed with mental illness has the right to agree or disagree with prescribed medication. Not all people with mental illnesses are violent. Because an individual receives a diagnosis of mental illness does not automatically eliminate that person from working. Being diagnosed with a mental illness does not necessarily prohibit a person from living independently. Answers 1. FALSE: One in every 5 Americans have a mental illness in their life time. 2. TRUE: Suicidal behavior is a psychiatric emergency. Suicidal thoughts or behaviors should not be ignored. Professional HELP is needed. 3. FALSE: See above. 4. TRUE: Giving personal items away can be a warning sign an individual is contemplating suicide. 5. FALSE: 988 is a 24-hour Suicide & Crisis LIfeline. Call: 988 Text: 988 Website: https://988lifeline.org/ Menu Home Stressed Myths vs Fact Resources Tri-County Mental Health Fair Psychiatric Services About Location Partners Contact