The Myth of Mental Illness Quiz Questions and Answers

What makes you nervous about the label “mental illness?”

That it’s used to silence dissenting voices.
That it’s too easily applied to anyone who doesn’t fit in.
That it removes personal responsibility from the equation.
I’m not nervous about it, I think it’s a valid medical term.

You have a choice of conforming to societal expectations or challenging them. Which do you choose?

Conform, it’s easier to go with the flow.
Challenge, I’ve never been one to follow the crowd.
It depends on the situation and what’s at stake.
I strive to find a balance between fitting in and staying true to myself.

What’s your favorite way to challenge conventional thinking?

Through art and creative expression.
Through open dialogue and debate.
Through activism and social change.
By quietly living my truth.

What comes to mind when you hear the phrase “problems in living”?

It feels dismissive of real suffering.
It feels like an overly simplistic way to describe complex issues.
It feels refreshingly honest and relatable.
It feels like a cop-out to avoid responsibility.

Someone asks, “How are you mentally?” What’s the actual answer, not just “I’m good?”

I feel the weight of societal expectations.
I’m navigating a complex internal landscape.
I’m engaged in the ongoing process of self-discovery.
I’m present and aware of my thoughts and emotions.

What happened in the past when you questioned societal norms?

I was met with resistance and pushback.
I found my tribe of like-minded individuals.
It sparked a journey of self-discovery and growth.
Nothing, I don’t usually question societal norms.

When you were a kid, how did you deal with being different?

I tried to hide it and fit in.
I embraced it and let my freak flag fly.
I didn’t realize I was different.
I found a balance between expressing myself and blending in.

How do you feel about the medicalization of human behavior?

It’s a slippery slope that can lead to overdiagnosis and overmedication.
It’s a necessary tool for addressing real suffering.
It’s a complex issue with no easy answers.
It doesn’t really affect me personally.

What is your absolute favorite example of someone who challenged the status quo?

Martin Luther King Jr.
Malala Yousafzai
Albert Einstein
My grandmother, who was ahead of her time.

How do you feel about the role of personal responsibility in mental health?

It’s crucial, we all have a responsibility to take care of ourselves.
It’s complicated, sometimes people need help beyond their control.
It’s a distraction from systemic issues that contribute to mental health struggles.
I’m not sure, it’s a complex issue.

Tell us a little about your view on how social pressure affects mental well-being.

It can be incredibly stifling and lead to feelings of inadequacy.
It’s a necessary part of living in a society.
It doesn’t really affect me, I don’t pay attention to social pressure.
I’m somewhere in between, I acknowledge its influence but try not to let it define me.

If you could choose any way to approach social problems, which one would you choose and why?

Address systemic issues that create inequality.
Promote individual responsibility and self-reliance.
Encourage compassion and understanding.
Focus on education and raising awareness.

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when someone says someone is “mentally ill?”

I wonder about the social context and what led to that label.
I feel compassion for their struggles.
I worry about the stigma they might face.
I accept it as a valid medical diagnosis.

What affects you the most, societal expectations or your own internal compass?

Societal expectations, I want to fit in.
My own internal compass, I have to be true to myself.
It’s a constant tug-of-war between the two.
I’m not sure, I don’t think about it that much.

What’s your idea of a mentally healthy society?

One that celebrates diversity and embraces differences.
One that provides support and resources for those who need it.
One that prioritizes individual well-being and personal growth.
One that encourages open dialogue and challenges the status quo.

What is your strongest opinion about the ideas presented in “The Myth of Mental Illness?”

I agree with Szasz, the concept of mental illness is flawed.
I disagree with Szasz, mental illness is a real medical condition.
I think it’s more complex than either extreme, there’s truth to both sides.
I need more information before forming an opinion.

What keeps you up at night about the state of mental health care?

The over-reliance on medication.
The lack of access to affordable therapy.
The stigma surrounding mental illness.
The lack of focus on prevention and early intervention.

Which of these themes – individual responsibility, social influence, or the dangers of over-medicalization – resonates with you the most?

Individual responsibility, we have to own our choices.
Social influence, we’re shaped by our environment.
The dangers of over-medicalization, we need a more holistic approach.
All of them, they’re all interconnected and important.

When you think about the term “normal,” what are you most concerned about?

That it’s used to exclude and marginalize those who are different.
That it’s a moving target that’s constantly changing.
That it prevents people from embracing their true selves.
I’m not really concerned about it, it’s just a word.

What aspect of challenging conventional thinking makes you the most happy?

The potential for growth and change.
The connection with like-minded individuals.
The feeling of breaking free from restrictive norms.
The satisfaction of standing up for what I believe in.

What is most likely to make you feel down about the state of mental health discourse?

The lack of open-mindedness and willingness to consider different perspectives.
The polarization of opinions and the difficulty in finding common ground.
The perpetuation of stigma and discrimination.
The feeling that things are not getting better.

In a perfect world, what would the relationship between individual responsibility and mental health care look like?

Individuals would be empowered to take ownership of their mental well-being.
There would be a balance between personal responsibility and societal support.
Mental health care would focus on prevention and early intervention.
There would be no stigma surrounding mental health struggles.

If you could wave a magic wand, what would the perfect outcome of the “myth of mental illness” debate be?

A greater understanding of the complexity of human behavior.
A more compassionate and humane approach to mental health care.
A society that embraces diversity and values individual well-being.
An end to the stigma surrounding mental illness.

How often do you question the labels and diagnoses associated with mental health?

All the time, I think it’s important to be critical.
Occasionally, when something doesn’t seem quite right.
Rarely, I trust the professionals to make those judgments.
Never, it’s not my place to question medical diagnoses.

You are at a party and someone makes a joke about mental illness. What do you do?

Speak up and challenge their insensitivity.
Ignore it and hope it goes away.
Subtly express your discomfort without causing a scene.
Laugh along with them, I don’t want to be a killjoy.

How comfortable are you discussing your own mental health struggles?

Very comfortable, I believe in open communication.
Somewhat comfortable, I’ll share with people I trust.
Not very comfortable, it’s a private matter.
Not comfortable at all, it’s no one’s business but mine.

You have a free weekend to do whatever you want. What do you do?

Immerse yourself in nature and disconnect from society.
Connect with loved ones and engage in meaningful conversations.
Curl up with a good book and explore different worlds.
Attend a protest or engage in activism for a cause you believe in.

Which of these topics – the role of ethics in psychiatry, choice and responsibility, or the labeling of social deviance – is most likely to be a struggle for you?

The role of ethics in psychiatry, it’s a gray area.
Choice and responsibility, it can be hard to know where to draw the line.
The labeling of social deviance, it’s too easy to judge others.
None of them, I’m comfortable with all of these topics.

New information related to the “myth of mental illness” comes up. What is your first response?

I’m eager to learn more and explore different perspectives.
I’m skeptical, but open to having my mind changed.
I’m resistant, I don’t like having my beliefs challenged.
I’m indifferent, it doesn’t really affect me.

What’s your go-to book, podcast, or movie that explores themes of social conformity and individuality?

“One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest”
“The Giver” by Lois Lowry
The “Hidden Brain” podcast
“The Matrix”

What concept from “The Myth of Mental Illness” do you most want to dive deep on?

The idea that mental illness is a social construct.
The role of ethics in psychiatry.
The importance of individual responsibility.
The dangers of over-medicalization.

What’s your favorite memory related to a time you challenged conventional thinking?

When I stood up for what I believed in, even though it was unpopular.
When I had a thought-provoking conversation that changed my perspective.
When I realized that I wasn’t alone in my unconventional views.
I don’t have a specific memory, but I enjoy challenging the status quo.

What are you most passionate about when it comes to mental health advocacy?

Reducing stigma and discrimination.
Increasing access to affordable mental health care.
Promoting mental health awareness and education.
Challenging the medical model of mental illness.

How would your friends and family describe your approach to social norms and expectations?

A rebel, always questioning the status quo.
A free spirit, marching to the beat of my own drum.
A thoughtful observer, considering different perspectives.
I’m not sure, I’ve never asked them.

How prepared are you to challenge the status quo when it comes to mental health?

Bring it on, I’m ready to fight for change.
I’m willing to speak up, but I don’t want to rock the boat too much.
I’m not sure, it depends on the situation.
I prefer to leave it to the experts.

How do you handle situations where someone’s behavior is labeled as “mentally ill,” but you see it as a reaction to their environment?

I try to offer support and understanding.
I avoid getting involved, it’s not my place.
I try to educate others about the influence of social factors.
I feel conflicted, I don’t want to judge but I also don’t want to condone harmful behavior.

What do you think you need to become more comfortable challenging the “myth of mental illness”?

More knowledge and information.
More confidence in my own beliefs.
A supportive community of like-minded individuals.
I’m not sure, it’s a complex issue.

How often do you engage in self-reflection and examine your own biases about mental health?

Regularly, it’s important to be aware of my own perspective.
Occasionally, when something triggers me to do so.
Rarely, I’m not sure where to start.
Never, I don’t think I have any biases.

How confident are you in your ability to have nuanced conversations about mental health?

Very confident, I’m comfortable with different perspectives.
Somewhat confident, I’m still learning.
Not very confident, I’m afraid of saying the wrong thing.
Not confident at all, it’s a sensitive topic.

Do you have a support system in place for when your beliefs about mental illness are challenged?

Yes, I have friends and family who support my right to think for myself.
I have a few people I can talk to, but I’m not sure they always understand.
I don’t really have anyone I feel comfortable talking to about this.
I don’t need a support system, I’m confident in my beliefs.

How well do you think you stick to your convictions when it comes to challenging the medical model of mental illness?

Very well, I’m not afraid to voice my opinions.
I try to, but it can be difficult when I’m met with resistance.
I’m not sure, I haven’t had to defend my beliefs that often.
I’m not very good at it, I tend to avoid conflict.

Which of the following is most accurate when it comes to your understanding of the “myth of mental illness”?

I have a strong understanding of Szasz’s arguments.
I’m familiar with the basic concepts, but I need to learn more.
I’ve heard of it, but I’m not sure what it’s about.
This is the first time I’m hearing about it.

To what degree do you experience cognitive dissonance when your beliefs about mental illness are challenged?

Very little, I’m open to changing my mind.
A moderate amount, I need time to process new information.
A significant amount, I don’t like it when my beliefs are questioned.
I’m not sure, I’ve never thought about it.

Which of these best describes your current state of understanding regarding the societal factors that contribute to mental health?

I have a deep understanding of these complex issues.
I’m learning more and starting to see the connections.
I’m aware that social factors play a role, but I don’t know the specifics.
I don’t think social factors are as important as individual choices.

What is your current biggest challenge when it comes to reconciling individual responsibility with the “myth of mental illness”?

Finding a balance between holding people accountable and offering compassion.
Understanding the role of systemic issues without excusing harmful behavior.
I don’t see it as a challenge, I believe in personal responsibility.
I’m not sure, it’s a complex issue.

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when someone attributes their behavior to a mental illness?

I wonder if there are other factors at play.
I feel compassion for their struggles.
I accept their explanation at face value.
I’m skeptical, I need more information.

How do you handle disagreements with people who believe that mental illness is a purely medical condition?

I engage in respectful dialogue and try to understand their perspective.
I avoid the conversation, I don’t want to argue.
I try to educate them about the social and ethical dimensions of mental health.
I get defensive and shut down the conversation.

How would you describe your relationship to the concept of “normalcy”?

I reject it outright, it’s a tool for oppression.
I embrace it, I think it’s important to have standards.
I see it as a spectrum, there’s no one right way to be.
I don’t really think about it that much.

Are you stuck in any ways of thinking about mental health that might be influenced by societal norms?

Yes, I’m working on unpacking my biases.
I’m not sure, I’m open to exploring different perspectives.
I don’t think so, I consider myself to be pretty open-minded.
No, I have a very progressive view of mental health.

What would you say are your top struggles right now when it comes to advocating for a more nuanced understanding of mental health?

Overcoming the stigma surrounding mental illness.
Challenging the dominance of the medical model.
Finding effective ways to communicate complex ideas.
I’m not sure, I’m still learning.

What is your ultimate goal when it comes to challenging the “myth of mental illness”?

To promote a more humane and compassionate approach to mental health care.
To empower individuals to take control of their own mental well-being.
To reduce stigma and discrimination surrounding mental illness.
I’m not sure yet, I’m still exploring my options.

What do you think is missing in the current conversation about mental health?

Nuance and complexity.
Compassion and understanding.
Focus on prevention and early intervention.
All of the above.

What is your current level of comfort in discussing the ethical implications of labeling and treating mental illness?

Very comfortable, it’s an important conversation to have.
Somewhat comfortable, I’m still developing my opinions.
Not very comfortable, it’s a sensitive topic.
Not comfortable at all, I don’t feel qualified to discuss it.

A friend tells you they’ve been diagnosed with a mental illness. How do you respond?

I listen with empathy and offer my support.
I express my concern and encourage them to seek professional help.
I question the diagnosis and suggest alternative explanations.
I avoid the topic altogether, I don’t know what to say.

What emotion do you experience most when engaging in discussions about mental illness – hope, fear, anger, or confusion?

Hope, that we can create a better future for those struggling with their mental health.
Fear, that the stigma surrounding mental illness will never go away.
Anger, at the injustices faced by those labeled as mentally ill.
Confusion, about the complexities of the issue and the lack of clear answers.

Which of the following do you notice yourself worrying about on a day-to-day basis – social conformity, individual freedom, the ethics of mental health care, or the validity of mental illness diagnoses?

Social conformity, I hate feeling pressure to fit in.
Individual freedom, I worry about our rights being eroded.
The ethics of mental health care, I’m concerned about the power dynamics involved.
The validity of mental illness diagnoses, I question the medical model.

How open-minded and curious do you feel in your current understanding of mental health?

Very open-minded, I’m always seeking new information.
Moderately curious, I’m interested in learning more.
Not very open, I’m comfortable with my current understanding.
Not curious at all, it’s not a topic that interests me.

How well do you think you balance respecting individual experiences with challenging potentially harmful narratives about mental illness?

Very well, I strive to find a balance between empathy and critical thinking.
It’s a work in progress, I’m still learning how to navigate these conversations.
I struggle with it, I don’t want to invalidate anyone’s experiences.
I don’t think there’s a need to challenge narratives, people should be free to believe what they want.

How connected do you feel to the larger conversation about mental health reform?

Very connected, I’m actively engaged in advocating for change.
Somewhat connected, I stay informed but I don’t always participate.
Not very connected, I don’t know much about it.
Not connected at all, it’s not something I’m interested in.

Which of the following is most likely to frustrate you – the over-medicalization of human experience, the lack of individual accountability, the stigma surrounding mental illness, or the complexity of the issue itself?

The over-medicalization of human experience, it’s a slippery slope.
The lack of individual accountability, people need to take responsibility.
The stigma surrounding mental illness, it prevents people from getting help.
The complexity of the issue itself, it’s hard to know what to believe.

What is the trickiest part about having productive conversations about mental health with people who hold different views?

Finding common ground and building understanding.
Avoiding judgment and respecting different experiences.
Staying calm and respectful when confronted with challenging viewpoints.
I’m not sure, I haven’t had many of these conversations.

Do you find yourself leaning more towards individual responsibility or societal influence when it comes to explaining human behavior?

Individual responsibility, we all have choices.
Societal influence, we’re shaped by our environment.
I try to find a balance between the two.
I’m not sure, it depends on the situation.

How do you determine when to speak up about your beliefs on mental health and when to stay silent?

I speak up whenever I feel it’s appropriate.
I consider the context and the potential impact of my words.
I usually stay silent, it’s a sensitive topic.
I’m not sure, it’s a difficult balance to strike.

Are your personal experiences consistently shaping your understanding of the “myth of mental illness?”

Yes, my experiences have had a profound impact on my views.
My experiences are one factor among many that shape my understanding.
I try to separate my personal experiences from my intellectual understanding.
I don’t think my personal experiences are relevant to this issue.

How do you manage the emotional weight of challenging deeply ingrained societal beliefs about mental health?

I rely on my support system and engage in self-care.
I try to stay focused on the positive impact I hope to make.
I struggle with it, it can be emotionally draining.
I don’t find it emotionally challenging, I’m confident in my beliefs.

Learn more