In an L2SLiberia community survey, 61% of respondents said they believed mental illness was caused by spiritual or supernatural forces, and 74% said they would be embarrassed to seek help. Beliefs like these are understandable, but they can stop people from getting care that works.
Myth: Mental illness is a curse or a punishment.
Fact: Mental health conditions are health conditions. They can be caused by many things, including trauma, loss, stress, poverty, illness and family history. They are no one's fault, and they can be treated.
Myth: Only weak people struggle with their mental health.
Fact: Anyone can be affected. Liberians have lived through war, Ebola and hardship. Struggling after experiences like these is a human response, not a weakness.
Myth: Talking about it makes it worse.
Fact: Talking to someone who listens well usually helps. Silence and shame make things harder.
Myth: People with mental illness cannot recover.
Fact: With the right support, many people recover fully or learn to manage their condition and live full lives.
Faith and care can go together
Many Liberians draw strength from their faith and traditions. Getting mental health support does not mean giving those up. Our counsellors work within people's beliefs, not against them.