Psychologists know more than anyone what makes a clear diagnosis for a mental health disorder. Unfortunately, there is still a giant stigma against mental illnesses based on false myths. Three psychologists decided to clear up these myths to Business Insider to teach others the truth about these well-known mental illnesses.
Does Having Bipolar Disorder Just Mean You Have Mood Swings?
Psychologist Jillian Stile says that bipolar disorder is not just simply mood swings. It is going from being in a very positive mood to a very low, negative mood. These different moods are more severe than the moods of typical people. For example, a manic episode can be being hypersexual or not sleeping at all.
Is Anxiety Disorder Just Feeling Stressed?
Psychologist Laura Goorin explains that we are wired to handle stressors like going to work and coming into contact with other people. If any of these situations are causing you to have panic attacks and takes over your life, this is something more serious like an anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders also mean ruminating on “what ifs.” It can go on for hours where you are wondering about what will happen if certain things occur which can prevent you from living your life and taking risks.
Is Depression the Same Thing as Sadness?
Sadness is an emotion that we all feel that passes. We tend to feel okay after. If we tend to think of all of the reasons why we are sad, this means we are entering depression. We have trouble getting out of bed because we are too upset to face the world. It also means that we cannot eat or sleep like we used to. The things we used to enjoy are not fun for us anymore.
Are Your Parents To Blame For Mental Illness?
Psychologist Neil Altman says that bad parenting does not cause mental illness. Mental illnesses can be genetic and passed onto your kids, but those genes are not purposefully passed down. Parents already feel responsible and guilty for the challenges their kids face. If kids are constantly blaming their parents for their symptoms, you will continue to look at them in a negative light which will not help you. Blaming other people for your disorder will not treat them. By going into treatment for your mental illness, you will gain control over your life and realize it is the right thing to do.
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