Psychologists Debunk 25 Mental-Health Myths

Summary

Psychologists Laura Goorin, Jillian Stile, and Neil Altman debunk common mental health myths in a studio discussion. They clarify that neatness doesn't equate to OCD, there are no five stages of loss, and schizophrenia isn't about multiple personalities. They also address misconceptions about bipolar disorder, anxiety versus stress, the transition from sadness to depression, and the role of therapy and medication in treatment. The panel challenges the idea that bad parenting causes mental illness, the gender bias in depression rates, and the outdated views on LGBT mental health. They also discuss the complexities of grief, the misuse of Myers-Briggs in personality assessment, and the importance of privacy and readiness in therapy.

Takeaways

• 🧼 The myth that all neat freaks have OCD is debunked; cleanliness doesn't equate to obsessive-compulsive disorder.
• 💔 There are no five stages of loss; this is a common misconception and not based on factual evidence.
• 🌀 Schizophrenia is not characterized by multiple personalities but by a break with reality and potentially delusional beliefs.
• 🌡️ Bipolar disorder is distinguished from mood swings by its severe and cyclical nature of extreme mood elevations and depressions.
• 🤔 Anxiety is a continuous worry loop, whereas stress is a response to specific stressors and is a natural part of life.
• 😔 Sadness is a fleeting emotion, whereas depression is a more persistent state often involving rumination and significant impacts on daily life.
• 💊 Antidepressants are designed to regulate mood symptoms and do not change one's personality.
• 👨‍⚕️ Therapy, not medication, is currently the most effective treatment for depression, although a combination of both can be beneficial.
• 🚫 The myth that bad parenting causes mental illness is harmful and not supported by evidence; focusing on present coping is more productive.
• 🏳️‍🌈 Homosexuality and being transgender are not mental disorders; only specific related anxieties or gender dysphoria are considered in diagnoses.

Q & A

What is the common myth about neat freaks and OCD that Laura Goorin addresses?

The common myth is that all neat freaks have OCD. Laura Goorin clarifies that most people who are clean simply care about cleanliness, which is different from having OCD, where the obsession with cleanliness must be at an obsessive level and constantly on one's mind.

According to Laura Goorin, what is the myth about the stages of loss?

Laura Goorin states that there is no scientific basis for the myth that there are five stages of loss. This concept is often mistakenly used to categorize people's grieving processes, but it is not supported by evidence.

How does Jillian Stile differentiate bipolar disorder from regular mood swings?

Jillian Stile explains that bipolar disorder involves severe forms of elevated mood (mania) and depressed mood, cycling through these states. It is not just mood swings, but rather extreme and disruptive changes in mood that can interfere with daily functioning.

What is the difference between anxiety and stress as described by Laura Goorin?

Laura Goorin distinguishes anxiety as a continuous state of worry and 'what if' thinking, while stress is a natural response to stressors in life, such as work or daily commutes. Anxiety can lead to conditions like panic attacks, whereas stress is a more general reaction to life's challenges.

What does Neil Altman suggest about the initial pain in therapy and its long-term benefits?

Neil Altman suggests that discussing painful past experiences can initially cause more pain, but it is essential for long-term healing. He emphasizes that a therapist's ability to handle a patient's despair is a significant step towards the patient handling their own emotions.

How does Laura Goorin explain the transition from sadness to depression?

Laura Goorin explains that sadness is a temporary emotional reaction, while depression often results from rumination on the cause of sadness. She notes that dwelling on negative thoughts can lead to a state of depression, which is a more prolonged and intense emotional state.

What is the myth about antidepressants that Laura Goorin debunks?

Laura Goorin debunks the myth that antidepressants change one's personality. She explains that they are meant to regulate the symptoms of depression and anxiety, helping to bring individuals back to their baseline mood, without altering their core personality.

Why does Neil Altman say the myth that bad parenting causes mental illness is a trap?

Neil Altman argues that the myth that bad parenting causes mental illness can lead to unnecessary guilt and damage the mental health of parents. He suggests focusing on dealing with the present effects of past experiences rather than blaming parents for mental health issues.

What does Laura Goorin discuss about the myths surrounding LGBT adults and youth in relation to mental health?

Laura Goorin discusses that there are many myths associated with the mental health of LGBT adults and youth, often stemming from historical misconceptions, such as homosexuality being listed as a disorder until 1973. She emphasizes that being LGBT in itself is not a disorder and that mental health issues should be addressed individually without prejudice.

How does Jillian Stile counter the myth that only women get depression?

Jillian Stile counters the myth by stating that while women are twice as likely to experience depression due to factors like hormonal changes and life circumstances, it does not mean that only women get depressed. She highlights that men also experience depression, but the expression and recognition of it might differ.

What is the myth about therapy and its focus on the past that Neil Altman addresses?

Neil Altman addresses the myth that therapy is exclusively about the past. He explains that while past experiences can provide perspective on current issues, therapy should not be limited to discussing the past. The focus should be on helping individuals understand and address their current problems.