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“Many families who have a loved one
with mental illness share similar experiences”
Most people believe that mental disorders are rare and “happen to
someone else." In fact, mental disorders are common and widespread. An
estimated 54 million Americans suffer from some form of mental disorder in a
given year.
A mental illness is a disease that causes mild to severe
disturbances in thought and/or behavior, resulting in an inability to cope with
life’s ordinary demands and routines.
There are more than 200 classified forms of mental illness.
Some of the more common disorders are depression, bipolar disorder, dementia,
schizophrenia and anxiety disorders. Symptoms may include changes in mood,
personality, personal habits and/or social withdrawal. |
Mental
health problems may be related to excessive stress due to a particular
situation or series of events. As with cancer, diabetes and heart disease,
mental illnesses are often physical as well as emotional and psychological.
Mental illnesses may be caused by a reaction to environmental stresses,
genetic factors, biochemical imbalances, or a combination of these. With
proper care and treatment many individuals learn to cope or recover from a
mental illness or emotional disorder.
The outward signs of a mental illness are often behavioral.
Individuals may be extremely quiet or withdrawn. Conversely, he or she may
burst into tears or have outbursts of anger. Even after treatment has started,
individuals with a mental illness can exhibit anti-social behaviors. When in
public, these behaviors can be disruptive and difficult to accept.
Therapy can be beneficial for both the individual with mental
illness and other family members. A mental health professional can suggest ways
to cope and better understand your loved one’s illness. When looking for a
therapist, be patient and talk to a few professionals so you can choose the
person that is right for you and your family. It may take time until you are
comfortable, but in the long run you will be glad you sought help. |
- People living with mental illnesses have the same needs as everyone else.
- People who have mental illnesses make valuable contributions to society.
- Discrimination against people who have mental illnesses keeps them from
seeking help.
- Discrimination against people who have mental illnesses violates their basic
human rights.
It is important to
remember that there is hope for recovery, and that with treatment many
people with mental illness return to a productive and fulfilling life. |
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