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Photo of David Dopkin

Some of the misunderstood facts about mental illness

On Behalf of | Oct 13, 2016 | Social Security Disability Benefits for Mental Conditions

In today’s world, where people have an abundance of ways to connect with each other, some people may be tempted to overshare every little detail of their lives. Social networking websites and smartphone apps allow people to share photos and commentary about everything, from their political views to what they ate for breakfast. Despite the ease with which information can be shared, some subjects are still very difficult to talk about. Mental health is one such topic, which results in many misunderstandings about mental illness.

Some people think of mental illness as some kind of weakness that others allow to take over their lives. However, the truth is that mental disorders are a result of both biological factors and life experiences. In many situations, people have no control over either factor, and thus their mental condition arises through no fault of their own.

Another common misconception about mental illness is that therapy is not beneficial, and that a person with a mental illness can never get better. The fact is that a combination of therapy and medication can help people become more self-aware of their condition and to work toward better mental health. Likewise, although a person may never be able to completely cure themselves of a mental illness, they can take life-changing steps to better cope with and minimize the effects that the illness has on their daily life.

Also contrary to popular belief, people who have a mental illness can work and function at a high level. They are motivated people who can produce quality work in a timely fashion. In some cases, however, a mental disorder can be severe enough that it prevents the person from holding down a full-time job. When this is the case, that person should understand that they may be able to qualify for Social Security Disability benefits.

People in Houston who are concerned about their own mental health, or that of a love one, should not be afraid to discuss it and to get a medical evaluation. Likewise, anyone who thinks they may also need financial help due to their mental illness should look into SSD benefits for mental disability.

Source: Medical Daily, “Mental Illness Awareness: 6 Myths About Mental Health You Need To Unlearn,” Lizette Borreli, on Oct. 4, 2016