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7 Misguided Beliefs About Psychiatric Disability

More often than not, most individuals choose to focus on stereotypes about different groups of people. Biased assumptions may lead to an incorrect assessment of an individual’s character. It is crucial to ensure people have access to useful and accurate information concerning psychiatric disability.

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(pixabay)

For decades mental illness has been associated with insanity or dark powers. More often than not, the topic tends to elicit irrational fear in most people. With the right support system, someone with a psychiatric disability can effectively lead an active and meaningful life.  

Although unknown to most people, mental illness occurs in varying forms. As such, it is essential to avoid biases and a prefixed mindset. 

Below are some of the typical clichés about psychiatric disability. 

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    1. Psychiatric disability is similar to intellectual disability

    Considering that the two forms of disability are closely related, it is common for people to make mistakes. It is very vital to ensure there is clarification on the two subjects to prevent further misinformation. Psychiatric disability is often a result of disabling psychiatric disorders like depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and personality disorders. Most people refer to the condition as a “mental illness,” which can confuse the two disabilities. Intellectual disability refers to a cognitive impairment that interferes with an individual`s ability to learn and process thoughts. Unlike intellectual disability, psychiatric disability hinders a person’s ability to make choices under particular circumstances or emotional state.

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    2. Psychiatric disability does not affect me

    Contrary to public opinion, which suggests it is okay to bury your head in the sand on issues about disabilities, no individual is in any way immune to depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, among other illnesses. It is vital to keep track of mental health to prevent one from suffering from conditions related to psychiatric disability. According to data from the World Health Organization, mental health disorders affect at least one out of every four individuals. Estimates from the organization project that psychiatric disability is the most common form of disability in the world.

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    3. Mental illness is a permanent condition

    Numerous people worldwide believe that individuals with psychiatric conditions are born like that, and there is no cure for the condition. According to research, most people experiencing psychiatric disability result from illness, accidents, or traumatic events. Studies show that contrary to popular opinion, most people with mental health issues improve their lives and fully recover. Individuals who make it to recovery can integrate with society and enjoy a full life. People experiencing mental illness are encouraged to seek professional help to overcome their conditions. Individuals with psychiatric disorders should seek support from counselors, therapists, and close confidants.

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    4. Individuals with a psychiatric disability are incapable of working

    Studies show that the most common problem facing people living with a psychiatric disability is retaining their jobs. Unfortunately, the unemployment rate of individuals with disabilities is twice that of the able-bodied population. Work helps to create a sense of purpose and motivate individuals to work on giving their best. Specialized interventions and support help people with mental illness work in an environment that allows them to showcase their skills. In some cases, work has been proven to help individuals feel good about themselves and keep a clear head. A job is essential since it enables one to participate in development actively.

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    5. People with schizophrenia are violent

    It is common for individuals to believe that people with psychiatric disabilities are mentally unstable and predisposed to violent acts. Research by authorities shows that people with mental illness only contribute to 1% of the crimes committed. Experts believe that there is no scientific relationship between mental illness and crime rates. Specialists advise people working with individuals who have psychiatric disabilities to avoid provocative language and calmness. Additionally, most people with mental illness tend to be more fearful than violent, as most people believe.

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    6. Psychiatric disability can only be treated through institutionalization or medication

    This misconception is entirely false and unfounded. Most psychiatric patients are never hospitalized and are usually treated as outpatients. There are numerous forms of treatment methods that can be used to help people with disabilities. Some of the alternatives to medication include; physiotherapy, psychotherapy, support groups, and rehabilitation programs. These programs are used to guide the individual as they make their way to positive mental health. Specialists can recommend specific treatment programs depending on the individual’s needs.

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    7. There is no proper way to help individuals with a psychiatric disability

    The first step to enable accessibility when working with people with mental conditions is to remain calm. Specialists encourage individuals working with people dealing with mental health concerns to practice tolerance and patience. Sometimes lending a listening ear to people with psychiatric disabilities goes a long way to encourage them to work better.   

The typical sign of mental illness is anxiety, which can be easily controlled by maintaining a calm and reassuring environment. Here are some other measures to promote accessibility among individuals with psychiatric disabilities. 

  1. Using clearly illustrated figures and simple words to give instructions to reduce the chances of confusion. Employers are advised to come up with clear instructions to avoid confusion. 

  1. Hiring competent and respectful workers with specialized training on how to interact with people with disabilities. 

  1. Employers have the responsibility of making sure the workplace is noise-free and conducive to maximum productivity. 

  1. Employers should encourage their employees to seek out professional counseling to help them navigate their mental health conditions. Therapists and professional counselors help the patient to keep track of their recovery process. 

All individuals are encouraged to avoid being emotionally insensitive to people and practice kindness and patience when dealing with individuals with psychiatric disabilities. Social institutions should set in place measures to make sure people with mental illness are integrated into the community. Mental health is crucial and plays a significant role in determining the general performance of individuals. 


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