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- Myth and Fact
Mythbusting is an Essential Part of Recovery
Myth
Psychosis is the result of bad parenting.
Fact
Most experts agree that genetics, substance use, stress, and other risk factors may lead to psychosis.
Myth
People with psychosis are lazy.
Fact
Psychosis is a medical disorder that affects the brain. Like any other injury, the brain needs to heal. This might mean that the person sleeps a lot, not that they’re lazy.
Myth
People with psychosis are “stupid”.
Fact
The person’s learning difficulties may be due to the illness, not a lack of intelligence.
Myth
Psychosis results from a personality weakness or character flaw.
Fact
Psychosis has nothing to do with being weak. It results from changes in the way the brain works. Medication and psychosocial therapies can help.
Myth
People with a psychotic illness are dangerous and violent. They’re psychopaths.
Fact
Having psychosis and being a psychopath are not the same. People who a suffer from psychosis are rarely violent. They’re more often frightened, confused and despondent.
