9 October 2026
Myths about mental health can discourage many individuals from seeking help, making stigma deeply harmful and leading to increased suffering in silence. October 10th is World Mental Health Day and UASA believes that more can be done to address mental health challenges without allowing stigma to persist. In this blog, UASA addresses some of the most common myths about mental health and facts.
It’s not normal to struggle
A long-standing myth about mental illness is that it’s not normal to feel bad. But mental health struggles are a normal part of the human condition. Part of breaking the mental health stigma is openly discussing the fact that many people will need mental health support at some point in their lives.
Therapy is not important
This is not true. Therapists provide support beyond what friends or family can offer, and seeking professional help is a vital step toward better mental health.
- People often feel more at ease opening up to a mental health professional because privacy laws protect their information, creating a safe space for sharing. Objective – The therapist’s role is to listen attentively and offer tools and strategies to help you feel better. There is no risk of them judging you, taking sides or using information against you.
- Skilled Counsellors, therapists, and mental health coaches have specialised training and tailor treatment to your needs.
Mental health disorder is weakness
This myth about mental illness is one of the most damaging. Mental disorders are medical conditions, just like diabetes, heart disease and other physical health problems. They are caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, environment and life experiences like trauma. Managing a mental health disorder requires strength and resilience. Fortunately, this mental health myth is gradually disappearing as awareness of mental illness grows. Although it’s normal to struggle, you don’t have to suffer – and even if therapy isn’t the right fit for you, there are many ways to strengthen your mental health, such as:
- Mental health coaching: Working with a certified mental health coach can help you build coping skills, set goals and solve problems.
- Self-care apps: These are do-it-yourself tools that help you learn effective self-care strategies at your own pace. While they can’t replace treatment from a therapist or mental health coach, they are a useful starting point for people who don’t need, aren’t interested in or aren’t yet ready to meet with a professional for care.
- Healthy lifestyle habits: These include consistent sleep patterns, a healthy diet, regular exercise and socialising with people you care about.