In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, Lyra Health wants to dispel several prevalent myths about mental health to ensure that they don’t hinder you from seeking the care you need.  

Myths about mental health prevent many people from getting the help they need. Stigma—the same associated with needing mental health support—can be deeply harmful. Given that rates of anxiety, depression and other mental health disorders are on the rise, it appears that these stigma continue to cause people to suffer needlessly in silence.   

Here are some of the common myths about mental health and facts. 

• Self-care apps: These are do-it-yourself tools for learning effective self-care strategies at your own pace. While they can’t replace treatment with a therapist or mental health coach, they’re a useful starting point for people who don’t need, aren’t interested in or aren’t yet ready to meet with a professional for care. 
• Healthy lifestyle habits: These include consistent sleep patterns, a healthy diet, regular exercise and socializing with people you care about. 

 It’s likely that we will all struggle with our mental health at various points in our lives. We all deserve support to overcome these struggles, without myths about mental health standing in our way. Destigmatizing mental health means acknowledging that this struggle is common. It is valid and normal to seek mental health care. While self-care is useful, we don’t always have to go alone, and asking for help is a sign of resilience.   

Vanderbilt employees and their families are eligible to receive 12 counseling or coaching sessions per household member each calendar year, at no cost to employees.   

Sign up today at vanderbilt.lyrahealth.com or call 877-804-2856. 

You can view frequently asked questions on the Office of Health, WellBeing and Belonging’s website. 

Guided by the Surgeon General’s Five Essentials for Workplace Mental Health and Well-Being, The Office of Health, WellBeing and Belonging aims to strengthen health, well-being and a sense of belonging among employees. We are dedicated to promoting mental health, work-life balance and a supportive work environment​. For more information, email HWB at [email protected].