Quiz: facts and myths on mental illness

Do you know the facts about mental illness?

A woman talks to a younger woman who lives with depression. Source: Newscast

Most mental illnesses are not life sentences and people who live with mental illness can lead full lives, despite some popular myths. 

Mental health in Australia is often misunderstood and misrepresented, Mindframe National Media Initiative manager Marc Bryant said.

He said mental illnesses were not all the same, and the illnesses people live with are often unique personal conditions.

“People experience mental illness in their own personal way,” Mr Bryant said.

He said another common myth was that talking to someone would not do any good.

"Talking to someone you know and trust is a massive step in the right direction."

Saturday, 10 October, is World Mental Health Day.

If this article has caused concerns for you or someone you know, these services are available to offer support over the phone:

Lifeline - 13 11 14

Beyond Blue - 1300 224 636

Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467

A federal government funded website, Mental Health in Multicultural Australia, provides translated mental health information and can direct you to help.