Busting Myths of Mental Health

Breaking the Stigma 

Have you ever heard that therapy is only for ‘crazy’ people? What if that’s totally wrong? Mental health is a big deal, especially for teenagers. But there’s so much misinformation out there that it can be hard to know what’s true and what’s just a myth. Let’s get the facts straight. 

Myth #1: Once You Start Therapy, You Have to Keep Going Forever 

Therapy doesn’t have to be a lifelong commitment. Many people attend therapy for a few months or just to work through specific challenges. The American Psychological Association (APA) says therapy length varies by individual needs. A 2023 meta-analysis published in BMC Psychiatry found no significant difference in outcomes between shorter-term and longer-term psychotherapy for anxiety and mood disorders. In other words, more therapy doesn’t always mean better results. 

Myth #2: “Therapy Is Only for People with Serious Problems” 

Therapy can help with everyday stress, academic burnout, friendship drama, or just figuring out who you are. According to Healthline, therapy for stress can teach healthy coping strategies and reduce the physical and emotional toll of chronic stress. 

The Center of Disease Control (CDC) also emphasizes that managing stress early can prevent long-term health problems, including anxiety and depression. Therapy is a proactive way to build resilience, not just a reactive measure when things fall apart. 

Even if your life looks “fine” on the outside, your feelings still matter. Therapy is for anyone who wants to understand themselves better, build coping skills, or feel less alone. 

Myth #3: “You Should Be Able to Handle It On Your Own” 

There’s this unspoken pressure, especially among teens, to “tough it out.” To push through stress, sadness, or anxiety without asking for support. Maybe it’s the fear of seeming needy. Maybe it’s the belief that independence means doing everything by yourself.

But here’s the thing: your brain is still developing. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, the prefrontal cortex, the part responsible for decision-making, emotional regulation, and impulse control doesn’t fully mature until your mid-20s. That means teens are biologically wired to need guidance, especially during emotionally intense moments. 

A 2022 study in Frontiers in Psychology found that adolescents who sought support whether from therapy, trusted adults, or peer networks had significantly better mental health outcomes than those who tried to cope alone. Asking for help isn’t a failure. It’s a protective factor. 

Think of it like this: if you were learning to drive, you wouldn’t just hop in a car and hit the highway without instruction. Mental health is no different. Therapy gives you the tools, the map, and the confidence to navigate life’s twists without crashing. 

Final Thoughts 

Therapy isn’t about being broken, it's about being brave enough to grow. Breaking the stigma starts with truth, and with teens knowing they’re allowed to ask for help. Mental health is part of your health. And you deserve to take care of it.