What you learned in school
Psychology and health classes taught that mental illness resulted from character defects, lack of willpower, or moral failings. Students learned that depression meant weakness, that anxiety showed lack of faith or courage, and that people could overcome mental problems through positive thinking and self-discipline. Mental illness was seen as a personal failing rather than a medical condition.
What we know now
Psychology and health classes often taught or implied that mental illness resulted from character flaws, weak willpower, or moral failings. Students learned that people could "snap out of" depression or anxiety through effort and positive thinking. Mental illnesses are medical conditions involving brain chemistry, genetics, and neurological factors. They are not character flaws or choices. Chemical imbalances, genetic predispositions, trauma, and biological factors all contribute to mental health conditions. Treatment requires medical and psychological intervention, not just willpower. The stigma of moral weakness has prevented many people from seeking needed help.