For many people, saying the simple sentence “I am seeing a therapist” is still harder than enduring the pain itself. Why? Because myths repeated across generations have built a wall between us and getting help. Let us tear down the five biggest.

This article is presented by Dr. Saeed Behckam, clinical psychologist and sex therapist practicing in Iran (Tehran) and Canada (Toronto, Richmond Hill & Vancouver), for the readers of Behckam.com.

Myth 1: “Mental Illness Means Weakness or Madness”?

Reality: mental health conditions form a spectrum, from exam anxiety to clinical depression — just as physical health spans colds to heart disease. According to PubMed, the systematic meta-synthesis by Elshamy and colleagues (2023) across Middle Eastern studies shows that precisely this stigma — public and internalized — is a chief barrier to help-seeking in our region’s cultures.

Myth 2: “Therapy Is Only for Severe Cases”?

Reality: psychotherapy also serves relationships, stress, grief, big decisions and personal growth. Early consultation actually makes treatment shorter and cheaper — like fixing a leak before the pipe bursts.

Myth 3: “Depression Improves With Willpower and Advice”?

Reality: depression is multifactorial; brain biology, life experience and social context are woven together. “Cheer up” and “be grateful” are not treatments — they only deepen the shame. Evidence-based care — psychotherapy and, when indicated, medication — is the scientific standard.

Myths 4 and 5: “Medication Is Harmful” and “There Is No Cure”?

Reality: modern psychiatric medication, supervised by a physician, is safe and effective, and most of it is not addictive. More importantly, mental disorders are among the most treatable in medicine. The landmark review by Angermeyer and Schomerus (2016) of 478 population surveys shows mental health literacy is growing worldwide — yet misconceptions remain stubborn, retreating only before accurate information.

Related reading: Repetition Compulsion: Why Do We Repeat Painful Patterns?

Frequently Asked Questions — Behckam.com

Does seeing a therapist mean I am “crazy”?

No. Most clients are capable, working people seeking help for anxiety, relationships, grief or personal growth — just as we see a dentist for a toothache.

Can willpower cure depression?

Depression is a multifactorial bio-psycho-social disorder, not weak will. Telling someone to “toughen up” is as effective as telling diabetes to will its sugar down.

Why do people in our cultures seek help less?

Middle Eastern studies point to three main barriers: public and internalized stigma, economic-structural obstacles, and misconceptions; many first turn to relatives or traditional healers.

How do I know it is time to get help?

When mood, sleep, appetite, focus or relationships have been disrupted for weeks and daily functioning erodes — the sooner you consult a professional, the better.

Conclusion

Every myth that falls opens a door to getting help. Mental health, like physical health, deserves care — timely, scientific and unashamed. You deserve exactly that standard of care.

Looking for professional support with your relationship or mental health?

For evidence-based, confidential guidance on your sexual, emotional and mental wellbeing, you can book a private consultation with Dr. Saeed Behckam, Iranian clinical psychologist and sex therapist serving clients in Tehran, Toronto, Vancouver and worldwide online.

Scientific References