The media, our culture, even the medical profession still mix myths and facts. One thing is clear, the prevalence of misconceptions and the accompanying attitudes reduce or eliminate the chances of people recovering from mental illness to gain and sustain employment. Listed below are some of the most harmful, the most off-base, and the most common myths, and of course, the truth. Mental illness is a matter of choice. Mental illness may be acquired through many things, but choice is not one of them.
Mental illness is a sign of weakness.
Clinical research strongly suggests that in general mental illness is the consequence of chemical imbalances in the brain. Strength may offer some protection but it does not necessarily prevent mental illness. Mentally ill people cannot work. Employers who have hired a person with mental illness regret the decision. Many employers throughout the country have hired people with serious mental illness.