Mental illness in Africa and everything related to mental health is a topic that only a few talk about. There are many misconceptions and stereotypes about these topics.
These misconceptions result in discrimination, judgement and maltreatment of people living with mental illness. And so, many of them, out of fear of being judged or discriminated against, choose not to open up about what they are going through or to seek help, which only makes matters worse.
The problem is we fail to understand that mental illness is just like every other illness that requires proper attention. Research shows that mental health problems are increasing in Africa, so the earlier we start talking about them and debunking the myths and misconceptions around mental health, the better for our society.
Misconceptions about Mental Illness in Africa
There are many misconceptions surrounding mental health in Africa, but a few come up again and again
Mental Illness Is a Spiritual Illness
Mental illness in Africa is often perceived to be a spiritual illness rather than a medical or biological illness. But research shows that most mental illnesses are caused by a combination of biological, psychological and environmental factors.
In Africa, we seem to relate everything to spirituality. Although, to an extent, that plays a certain role in some things that happen in our society. But mental illness should not be largely blamed on spirituality.
Mental Illness Could Only Be Cured Spiritually
Many believe that mental illness is a spiritual problem, and therefore that it can only be dealt with spiritually. But mental illness is a health condition, and like many health conditions, it responds to proper treatment. Most mental illnesses cannot be cured outright, and the same is true of many physical illnesses. What is achievable is recovery, through effective treatment and self-care, and that is what people should be pointed towards.
If treatment is to be linked with spirituality at all, it should be through prayer, as a way of backing up treatment and drawing on divine support, not as a replacement for it.
People with Mental Illness Are Dangerous
Mental illness can bring symptoms like distress, confusion and changes in behaviour, and people often mistake those changes for a threat. But the truth is that people living with mental illness are no more likely to be violent than anyone else, and they are far more likely to be the victims of violence than the cause of it. What they need from us is not distance or suspicion, but understanding and support.
You Must Have Done Something Bad to Be Mentally Ill
Many people believe that someone with mental illness must have done something wrong or offended somebody, and that the illness is a punishment or a curse. But as stated earlier, mental illnesses are caused by a range of biological, psychological and environmental factors. There are things in life we do not fully understand, but this is not one of them.
Mental Illness Is For The Weak
Mental illness is not caused by personal weakness. It is not a choice, and it can happen to anyone. Believing that mental illness is a sign of weakness discourages people from speaking up about what they are going through, which makes it even harder for them to get help.
With the right treatment and support, people living with mental illness can go about their day-to-day lives just like everyone else.
Also Read: Mental Health Laws in Africa: What You Should Know
People with Mental Illness Should Be Isolated
Once we understand that people living with mental illness are no more likely to be violent than anyone else, and that they can function well in their daily lives, what is the point of shutting them out? Rather than treating them like criminals, we should support them, encourage them to get treatment, and walk with them as they get better.
All Mental Illness is Madness
Madness is a term many people use to dehumanise those living with mental illness. It is used to make them look dangerous and unpredictable. But it is important to know that mental illness ranges from severe conditions such as psychotic disorders to milder ones such as mild depression, and most people living with one look nothing like the image that word conjures.
Mental Illness Can Be Prayed Away
Some religious people may want to rely only on prayer and faith to get better. But faith and work go hand in hand. The work here is getting treatment, and faith is what backs it up. Many serious mental illnesses cannot simply be prayed away. They need proper attention and treatment.
Mental Illness is a Sickness for The White Man
Mental illness is not a white man’s sickness. It is a worldwide one. You do not have to come from a certain place or be of a certain race or skin colour to experience it. Just like physical illnesses, mental illness does not discriminate.
Mental Illness is Demonic Possession
Because of some of the symptoms people with mental illness show, many believe it is simply demonic possession or being controlled by an evil spirit. But the two are not the same. Demonic possession is a spiritual matter. Mental illness is a medical one, and it needs medical care.
Conclusion
Many people hold wrong and damaging ideas about mental illness. Debunking these misconceptions makes it easier for people to speak up about what they are going through, and it opens the door for them to be treated better. Remember, mental illness is not a choice. It can happen to anyone.
Author: Chinasa Lovlyn Nwachukwu is a mental health coach and writer who has spent the past four years creating awareness about mental health in Africa.
DISCLAIMER:
The content of this blog post is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is provided for general information and awareness only.
If you need help or know someone struggling with their mental health, please visit our resource page.
