Breaking the Stigma: Debunking Mental Health Myths

A blood cancer diagnosis not only affects the body, but it can also impact people’s emotional and mental well-being. However, common myths can create stigma or prevent people from getting the mental health support they need.

For Mental Health Awareness Month, we can navigate through the myths and facts surrounding mental health with an open mind and remember that each person is a world of their own, meaning that all people experience things differently. 

Myth 1: You only need to take care of your mental health if you have a diagnosed condition.

Fact: Everyone benefits from nurturing their mental health. Just like we practice healthy habits to prevent physical illness, we can adopt habits that protect and strengthen our emotional resilience, especially during difficult times.

Myth 2: Nothing can be done to prevent mental health conditions.

Fact: Many factors can help protect mental health, including supportive relationships, healthy sleep patterns, managing stress, and seeking early help when needed. Building a network of emotional support is a powerful tool against adversity. Whether it is around your loved ones or in an online community, remember, you are not alone! 

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Myth 3: Having a mental health condition is a sign of weakness.

Fact: Mental health challenges are not about strength or weakness. They are health conditions influenced by a mix of genetics, life experiences, biology, and environment. It takes immense strength and courage to ask for help and work toward recovery.

Myth 4: Mental health problems are permanent.

Fact: Many people recover or learn to manage their mental health conditions successfully. Recovery is a personal journey. For some, it means symptom relief; for others, it means building a fulfilling life alongside their mental health diagnosis.

Myth 5: Mental health problems and stress worsen cancer outcomes. 

Fact: There is no clear scientific evidence that mental health issues or stress directly worsen cancer outcomes. While chronic stress can negatively affect overall health, studies have shown mixed results regarding its direct impact on cancer progression. Managing stress and emotional well-being is important for quality of life, but it should not be seen as solely determining cancer outcomes.

Myth 6: Only people without friends need therapists.

Fact: Therapy is different from talking to friends. While loved ones provide vital support, trained therapists offer structured guidance, coping strategies, and a confidential space to address sensitive issues in ways friends or family often cannot.

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Myth 7: People with mental health conditions cannot work.

Fact: A diagnosis does not define a person's skills, ambition, or worth. Most people with mental health challenges can work and contribute meaningfully. Accommodations, flexible schedules, and supportive workplaces can make a significant difference. 

Myth 8: Mental health problems are rare.

Fact: Mental health conditions are common. According to the NIH, about 1 in 4 people will experience a mental or neurological disorder at some point. In cancer patients, emotional challenges like anxiety and depression are even more frequent, and addressing them is just as important as treating the physical disease.

Myth 9: Panic attacks are fatal.

Fact: Panic attacks are frightening but not life-threatening. Recognizing the signs and learning grounding techniques can help manage these intense episodes. If you have a cardiovascular disease, consider working with your healthcare team to create a specific strategy that can help you prevent panic attacks. 

Myth 10: Positive thinking alone can cure illness.

Fact: While a positive outlook can improve quality of life and coping ability, there is no scientific evidence that attitude alone influences cancer outcomes, nor cures mental health disorders. Emotional honesty is allowing yourself to feel sad, scared, hopeful, or angry, which is healthy and normal.

Myth 11: Suicidal thoughts should be kept private.

Fact: If you are thinking about harming yourself or feeling hopeless, you are not alone, and you deserve support. These feelings are not a burden to share. Telling your healthcare team and loved ones can open the door to treatments and therapies that save lives.

Your feelings are valid. Help is always available.

If you are in immediate distress or are thinking about hurting yourself, call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline toll-free at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255). You can also text the Crisis Text Line (HELLO to 741741) or use the Lifeline Chat on the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline website.

Final Message

Living with cancer can be physically and emotionally challenging. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health. Seeking help, building support systems, and treating mental health concerns proactively can make a significant difference in your overall well-being.

This Mental Health Awareness Month, let’s commit to breaking the stigma and encouraging every patient, survivor, care partner, and loved one to prioritize their emotional well-being today and every day!

Learn from others’ experiences through these impactful patient stories: 

• Processing the Emotional Side of Myeloma: The Story of Liz Levine
• Amy’s Journey with Multiple Myeloma: Finding Purpose Through Creativity

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