Mental Health Truths: Facts vs. Fiction About Mind and Brain Disorders
Dr. Manish Sharma
Published on January 24, 2026
Stop Believing These Wrong Ideas About Mental Health
As a General Physician in Ajmer, I see many patients with mental health and brain problems. Every day, I hear wrong ideas that stop people from getting help. These wrong ideas come from friends, family, and the internet. In this article, I will tell you the truth about common myths. I will give you facts to help you understand mental health better.
Why Wrong Ideas About Mental Health Are Bad
Mental health problems are real medical conditions. Wrong ideas make people feel shame. They stop people from seeing a doctor. This delay can make problems worse. At Paras Hospital and Jeevan Jyoti Hospital in Ajmer, I help patients understand their condition. Knowing the truth is the first step to getting better.
Top 10 Mental Health Myths Debunked
Myth 1: "Mental Illness Means You Are Weak"
The Truth: This is wrong. Conditions like depression and anxiety are medical problems. They are not a sign of weakness. Just like diabetes or thyroid problems, they need treatment. Strong people ask for help when they need it.
Myth 2: "Medicine for Mental Health is Bad and Addictive"
The Truth: Psychiatric medicines are not "happy pills." They help balance brain chemicals. When given by a doctor and taken correctly, they are safe and not addictive. Not taking medicine when needed is more dangerous.
Myth 3: "Therapy is Just Talking"
The Truth: Modern therapy is more than talking. It teaches real skills to handle thoughts and feelings. Therapists give tools to manage stress, anxiety, and depression. It is like exercise for your mind.
Myth 4: "People with Mental Illness are Dangerous"
The Truth: This is not true. Most people with mental health problems are not violent. In fact, they are more likely to harm themselves than others. This myth makes people afraid to ask for help.
Myth 5: "Memory Loss is Normal in Old Age"
The Truth: Some forgetfulness is normal with age. But serious memory loss is not normal. It can be a sign of brain problems like dementia. Early help is important.
Myth 6: "Only Crazy People Need a Psychiatrist"
The Truth: This is very wrong. Many normal people need help for stress, sadness, or anxiety. Seeing a doctor early can stop small problems from becoming big ones.
Myth 7: "Children Don't Get Depression"
The Truth: Children can and do get mental health problems. They can have anxiety, depression, or ADHD. Saying "it's just a phase" can make things worse.
Myth 8: "Addiction is a Choice, Not a Disease"
The Truth: Addiction changes the brain. It is a medical condition, not just bad behavior. People with addiction need medical help and support, not judgment.
Myth 9: "You Never Recover from Mental Illness"
The Truth: Most people get better with treatment. "Recovery" means living a good life, even if you sometimes have symptoms. With the right help, people can work, have families, and be happy.
Myth 10: "Mental Health Problems Are All in Your Head"
The Truth: Mental health affects your whole body. Depression can cause body pain and tiredness. Anxiety can cause stomach problems. Physical health and mental health are connected.
Patient Stories: How Truth Helps
"I thought my anxiety was just stress. My family said 'be strong.' After 2 years, I saw Dr. Sharma. Medicine and therapy changed my life. Now I can do my work without panic." - Rekha, 40, Ajmer
"My father had a stroke. After that, he was always angry. We thought it was his personality. Dr. Sharma said it was post-stroke depression. Treatment helped him become calm again." - Sanjay, 52, Ajmer
Facts: What Treatment Really Is
- Good Diagnosis: The doctor talks to you and may do tests to rule out physical problems (like thyroid issues).
- Right Treatment Plan: This may include medicine, therapy, or both.
- Full Care: Working with our Diet Expert, Dr. Gauri Mehra for good food, plus sleep and exercise advice.
- Regular Check-ups: To see how you are doing and adjust treatment if needed.
When to See a Doctor in Ajmer
See a doctor if you or someone you know has:
- Deep sadness or worry for more than 2 weeks
- Big changes in sleep or eating
- Stopping activities they used to enjoy
- Anger or mood swings that cause problems
- Thoughts of hurting themselves or others
- Trouble with memory or thinking clearly
- Can't handle daily stress
Common Questions
Q: Is mental illness in the family?
A: Sometimes it runs in families. But even if your family has it, you may not get it. Life experiences also matter.
Q: How long does treatment take?
A: It is different for each person. Some feel better in weeks. Others need longer treatment. Like diabetes, some people need care for a long time.
Q: Can lifestyle changes cure mental illness?
A: Good sleep, exercise, and healthy food help a lot. But for many people, they are not enough alone. Medicine and therapy are often needed too.
Q: How to help a family member?
A: Listen without judging. Encourage them to see a doctor. Help them with daily tasks. Be patient.
Simple Truth: Get Help, Don't Believe Myths
Mental health is part of your health. Wrong ideas should not stop you from getting help. Good treatment is available in Ajmer.
I treat patients with care and science. We make a plan together for your health and happiness.
📞 To Talk to a Doctor in Ajmer: Call +91 8690761918 for an appointment.
📍 Places: Paras Hospital, Pushkar Road (10 AM-5 PM) and Jeevan Jyoti Hospital, Beawar Road (6 PM-8 PM).
Don't let wrong ideas stop you. Your mental health matters.