Debunking misconceptions during Mental Illness Awareness Week

September 29, 2022 - Defence Stories

Mental Illness Awareness Week (October 2-9) is a national campaign that seeks to inform and educate Canadians about the reality of Mental Illness. It provides us with an opportunity to address misconceptions about mental illness and improve our understanding of mental health. This in turn, promotes our acceptance, respect and equitable treatment of those living with mental illness, while reducing stigma.

What is mental illness?

Mental illness refers to a health condition involving changes in emotion, thinking or behavior that are associated with distress.

 “It will never affect me.”

This could not be further from the truth. Everyone is impacted by mental illness through our own experiences or through the experiences of a family member, friend, or colleague. For example, mood and anxiety disorders are the most common types of mental disorders experienced by Canadians. Approximately 3 in 4 Canadians who access health services for a mental illness are doing so for support while living with a mood and/or anxiety disorder.

Negative mental health isn’t always a result of mental illness.

When talking about mental illness, it is important to note that the presence or absence of a mental illness is not a predictor of good mental health. The status of a persons’ mental health, positive or negative, is not necessarily related to whether or not they live with a mental illness but people living with mental illness can also experience significant distress related to their symptoms.

While stress impacts the well-being of some individuals, people living with mental illness may be better equipped at managing stress than people who have not experienced mental illness. People who experience mental illness often develop and learn skills for managing their stress through their coping strategies.

Not all mental illnesses are the same.

There are many different types of mental illness including depression, generalized anxiety disorder, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, alcohol and substance use disorders, etc. In addition, individuals experience varying symptoms associated with their mental illness, intensity of those symptoms and functional impairment from the illness.

Learning about the impacts mental illness has on individuals provides opportunities to challenge preconceived ideas and stereotypes that people may carry with them from previously learnt attitudes and false information.

Are only those of certain ages are affected by mental illness?

Mental illness can affect children, adolescents and adults, including the elderly. While the experience of a child living with mental illness appears different than that of an adult, it may impact skill development and the way they learn which can lead to future challenges.

While older adults may have a greater risk of depression due to changes in roles and social networks, depression is not an inevitable part of aging (you are now leaving the Government of Canada website). However, if an older adult or child experiences signs or symptoms of depression, it is important to seek professional mental health care.

“I’m so depressed.”

Depression (you are now leaving the Government of Canada website) is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. People living with depression (you are now leaving the Government of Canada website) experience overwhelming and invasive despair that has been described as, ‘the worst pain ever endured’. People sometimes use the phrase, “I’m so depressed” to let other people know that they are feeling down. It is important to note that experiencing moments of sadness or grief are normal and may not necessarily be depression.

During a depressive episode (you are now leaving the Government of Canada website), people tend to experience a depressed mood (i.e., feeling sad, irritable, or empty), a loss of interest or a loss of pleasure in activities. People with depression may also experience mood changes in the form of bodily symptoms such as pain, fatigue, or weakness. During these episodes, people experience significant difficulty in personal, social, occupational, educational or other important areas of functioning. Symptoms of depression may include:

• poor concentration;
• feelings of low self-worth;
• excessive guilt;
• hopelessness;
• thoughts about dying or suicide;
• disrupted sleep; and
• changes in appetite or weight. 

A depressive episode can be mild, moderate, or severe depending on how many symptoms a person is experiencing and the intensity of those symptoms. Depression must be taken seriously and treatment is encouraged for anyone who is having difficulty managing their symptoms.

What can I do to help myself or someone who is suffering from mental illness?

By learning more about the experiences of individuals with mental illness, we can spread awareness and show support for people who may have challenges with their mental health. It is important to remember that taking care of yourself and acknowledging when you need help are signs of strength, not weakness. Continue to be a part of the change in how we see and talk about mental illness by educating yourself and others, while challenging myths and stereotypes about mental illness.

Programs and Resources Available for Defence Team Members

The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and Canadian Forces Member Assistance Program (CFMAP) are here to help public service employees and CAF personnel, families, and veterans cope with professional or personal challenges that may impact their health and well-being.

If you find yourself needing a helping hand or simply wanting to talk to someone, the DND/CAF have resources available to help.