Archive · 20 Nov 2025
Mental Health Misconceptions: A Psychologist's Perspective
Even though we talk a lot about mental health, we don't always understand it.
A book about a woman with dysthymia shows how unique everyone's experience is.
A psychologist explains that therapy is for everyone, not just sick people.
She also clarifies common misunderstandings about mental health and the role of shame in collectivistic cultures.
Mental health is widely discussed but often misunderstood.
Baek Se-hee's book 'I Want to Die, but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki' explores dysthymia and seeking comfort in food.
Therapy is not just for illness, but also for self-growth and understanding.
Three common pitfalls in understanding mental health are generalizations, emphasis on labels, and misconceptions about self-esteem.
Shame, common in collectivistic cultures like South Korea, can greatly impact mental health.
- Who
- Baek Se-hee, a woman with dysthymia, and the author of the column, a clinical psychologist
- What
- Discussion on mental health, misconceptions, and the role of shame
- When
- The book was recently referred to in a Mint column on 27 October 2025
- Where
- South Korea and India
- Why
- To clarify common misunderstandings about mental health
Those who generalize mental health experiences
Mental health professionals who emphasize individuality
Generalizations
Those who generalize mental health experiences
Everyone experiences difficulties the same way.
Mental health professionals who emphasize individuality
Each person's experience is unique and should be respected.
- Book Title
- I Want to Die, but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki
- Author
- Baek Se-hee
- Mental Health Condition
- Dysthymia
- Common Misconceptions
- Generalizations, emphasis on labels, misconceptions about self-esteem
- Role of Shame
- Paralyzing and handicapping, affects interpersonal, work, and self domains