Pandemic Parenting: Myths and Truths about Mental Healthcare

Mental health and illness have historically been treated as taboo topics in society. While we have been taking steps forward in advocating for adequate healthcare, misinformation is still a major issue. If your child is struggling with mental illness, having a solid understanding of how their treatment works is crucial for recovery and good long-term prognosis. With that in mind, let’s break down some myths about therapy and medications!

Myth: Doctors don’t believe in natural therapies.

Truth: Researchers all over the world are actively looking at alternative and complementary treatments for mental illnesses. However, there is so much information we still don’t know about the various supplements and therapies available. Though the process is too complicated to go into detail here, the thing to know is that just like medications, each potential treatment should be evaluated for efficacy, safety, and be tested in both animals and humans. This process takes years before something can hit the shelves. However, unlike medications, natural supplements are not currently strictly regulated (particularly in the USA), meaning what you think you’re buying may not actually be what’s inside. Additionally, many manufacturers use “proprietary formulations” that include ingredients that may reduce the supplement effect, interact with medications, or at worst, cause damage or death. As for interventions (acupuncture, essential oils, cupping, etc.), only limited research studies are available and often contradicts each other. The important thing to keep in mind is that natural isn’t always better, and it’s best to discuss them with your doctor before starting so you can weigh the potential risks and benefits.

Myth: The treatment doesn’t work if I don’t see results right away.

Truth: Unlike other types of illnesses, mental disorders typically develop over time. Our brains are complex organs, and we still know very little about how they work. What we do understand is that any changes in the brain happen slowly. Therefore, any treatment requires patience and time. Therapy is focused on identifying and addressing unhealthy beliefs, self-talk, and coping mechanisms. Medications are designed to change the way your brain produces the chemicals that affect mood and behavior. Just like diet or exercise, it’s normal not to see changes for weeks to months. That doesn’t mean your child isn’t improving; progress can just be subtle and take a while to notice. Giving up too soon could cause your child to miss out on the potential benefits.

Myth: You can do therapy once a month and get better.

Truth: Think of how long it took you to make a new friend or be comfortable with someone you didn’t know in the past. Would you have gotten to know them as well if you only saw them on occasion? The same goes for your child and a therapist. As mentioned above, therapy is designed to get to the root of psychological issues. This requires a lot of trust and a good relationship. It takes time and consistency to form that kind of connection. Also, a lot of things can happen in the span of a few days or weeks. As most sessions are 30-60 min long, it can be very challenging to address issues in detail when your child only sees the therapist once a month. Therapy is most effective when sessions are weekly (ideal) to biweekly because it allows the therapist to stay updated on what’s happening. It also encourages your child to practice any skills they learn more regularly and make changes more quickly.

Myth: Any therapy will work.

Truth: Just as every one of us is a mixture of cultures, backgrounds, and life experiences, mental illness presents differently in people. As such, we can’t expect that one type of therapy works to treat every disorder. There’re different approaches to individual therapy (psychoanalytic, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, etc) that target specific symptoms or issues. There are also therapies that involve more than one person – couples, families, groups. Your therapist will also take into account your child’s developmental level/needs so they can get the most out of treatment.

Myth: The doctor is only going to prescribe medication.

Truth: When it comes to mental illness, the three forms of treatment that have been shown to be helpful are therapy, medication, and a combination of both. In some cases, community involvement (such as school counselors) may also be suggested. Doctors make their recommendations based on several factors, including the specific diagnosis, the severity of the dysfunction, and access to alternative interventions. This is why they will ask a lot of questions about your child’s current symptoms, medical history, and family situation. It allows them to determine which treatment option will be the most effective. For example, if your child has ADHD but only struggles a little with certain classes, modifications might be enough to help them. However, if they’re failing classes or have disruptive/aggressive behavior, additional interventions like behavioral therapy or medications would also be appropriate.

Myth:  Psychiatric medications are addictive or dependency forming.

Truth: While there are some classes of medications that are controlled substances because of the potential for addiction or dependency, the vast majority are not. In addition, these issues present primarily when the medications are being misused or abused. Still, these medications are avoided by child and adolescent psychiatrists as a safeguard to prevent these situations and are used very sparingly. When used, they are closely monitored and given in the smallest doses needed. Sometimes, things like side effects, intolerance, or withdrawal effects are confused with addiction or dependency. If you have any questions about the specific medication your child’s doctor is recommending, it’s important to bring it up during the visit to discuss.

Myth: Psychiatric medications work like other medicines.

Truth: As mentioned above, psychiatric medications target the chemical imbalance in your child’s brain. Since they are believed to alter the levels of those chemicals, they take time to start doing so. With a few exceptions (such as stimulants for ADHD), these medicines will need weeks to fully become effective. They also require regular dosing, and some even have strict scheduling requirements. As such, you cannot stop and start them abruptly, skip doses, or you use them on an as needed basis like over-the-counter medications (unless your doctor specifies). You also need to be careful when combining them with other medications or supplements, as interactions can cause severe problems or damage.

Myth: Once my child starts medication, they won’t ever be able to get off.

Truth: What we know about mental illness is that there’s a lot of different factors that determine how severe symptoms are and how it affects long-term prognosis. While using the word “cured” is not an accurate way to describe recovery, many people with mental illness live full, happy, and successful lives with or after treatment. Your child’s ability to be weaned off medication will depend on their genetics, unique chemistry, psychological traits, and environment. These are all things the doctor will consider, but your (and your child, if they’re older) collaboration is welcome and encouraged. The truth is, your doctor’s hope is also to help your child get to the point where medications aren’t needed, or at least at minimal levels. Treatment is meant to be a collaborative and dynamic process.

We have come a long way as a society in understanding mental health and mental illness better. However, these myths persist and often scare people into not seeking treatment when it’s needed. Hopefully, this information will ease any fears and encourage you to get help for your child if the situation arises.

Written by: Jennifer Yen, MD