Staff Insights

Mental Health Myth Busting: Speaking the truth around mental health

Myth: Mental health problems are really rare and only affect a small number of individuals.

Truth: Mental health issues are very common. According to the World Health Organisation, 1 in 4 people will experience a mental or neurological disorder at some point in their lives.

Submitted by Taiwo Mary Opii – Healthcare Assistant

Myth: Mental health problems can be identified by appearance or behaviour.

Truth: Mental health issues are very common. According to the World Health Organisation, 1 in 4 people will experience a mental or neurological disorder at some point in their lives.

Submitted by Steve Cottrell – Registered Mental Health Nurse

Truth: Mental health can affect anyone – regardless of age, background, profession or lifestyle. Support is something we all deserve

Submitted by Yetunde Fawole – Registered General Nurse

Truth: Looking after your mental wellbeing should be a part of everyday life. It’s not about waiting for a diagnosis – it’s about caring for yourself daily.

Submitted by Rasheed Ekundayo – Healthcare Assistant

Many of these myths continue to circulate because mental health isn’t always visible. Unlike a broken bone or a cold, the symptoms of poor mental health can be harder to recognise – and even harder to talk about. Stigma, fear of judgment, and lack of education often prevent people from opening up or seeking help.

Misconceptions can also stem from outdated beliefs or a lack of personal experience, which is why campaigns like this are so important. The more we talk, the more we learn – and the more understanding we can create.

What Can We Do to Change This?

Challenging stigma starts with education, empathy, and honest conversations. Here’s what we can all do:

  • Check in with those around us – even if they seem “okay”
  • Speak openly about mental health in our workplaces and communities
  • Share helpful resources and encourage self-care
  • Promote supportive environments where no one feels alone

Tune into our podcast episode, “Jane Lewis Let’s Talk: Mental Health Myth Busting,” where we’re joined by Lesley Parker, our Head of Business Support and Mental Health First Aider. We explore what mental health really means, how to break down some more myths, and the importance of support in the workplace.

There are also various organisations that can offer mental health support, such as:

YoungMinds

0808 802 5544

(Parents helpline, Monday – Friday 9:30am – 4:00pm)

Mind

0300 123 3393

Samaritans

116 123

(freephone)

Anxiety UK

03444 775 774 (phoneline) or 07537 416 905 (textline)