Facts & Myths: Mental Illness & Addiction
Common misconceptions about mental illness and addiction, and what's actually true.
What it is
Misinformation about mental illness and addiction is common, and it's a major reason people delay getting help — fear of being judged, misunderstood, or blamed often outweighs fear of the condition itself.
Good to know
A few of the most persistent myths: that addiction is a choice or moral failing (it's a complex health condition shaped by biology, environment, and circumstance); that people with mental illness are dangerous (the overwhelming majority are not, and are far more likely to be victims of violence than perpetrators); that therapy is only for “serious” problems (most people who attend counselling are functioning well and want to keep it that way); and that medication changes who you are (most psychiatric medication removes symptoms that were already distorting how someone felt, rather than adding something foreign).
What helps
Talking openly about mental health and addiction, in plain language and without euphemism, is one of the most effective ways to reduce the stigma that keeps people from asking for help.
When to seek help
If stigma or fear of judgment is the main thing standing between you and getting help, that's worth naming to yourself directly — the services on this site are built to be judgment-free.
Before you call
Services that can help
- NL HealthLine (811)Free, confidential 24-hour line staffed by registered nurses. The province tells you to call 811 for a mental health or addictions crisis that isn't life-threatening. Nurses can also connect you to the right service.
- 211 NLFree, confidential navigation service connecting people to government and community programs of every kind, including mental health and addictions.
- Mental Health and Addictions Systems NavigatorHelps people and families work out which service actually fits their situation, then connects them to it.
- Bridge the gAppNL's official online mental health and addictions portal: self-help content, a service directory, and the BreathingRoom program.
- Patient Connect NLProvincial registry to get matched with a family doctor or nurse practitioner — the usual first stop for ongoing mental health care and medication management.
- Provincial Opioid Dependence Treatment LineSupport and navigation for people using opioids, their families, and providers.
Related topics
This page is general information, not a diagnosis or medical advice. If you're in crisis, go to Get Help Now instead of reading further.