According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, roughly 1 in every five adults has mental illness in America. That equates to nearly 45 million people or 18.5% of the population. Despite these overwhelming numbers, many Americans do not fully understand what, exactly, mental illness is. Today, we are going to try to enlighten the populace with our mental illness FAQ.

Mental Illness FAQ

The odds are that you have a friend, family member, or co-worker that suffers from some form of mental illness. You may even need mental health treatment yourself. With such a high prevalence of mental health issues plaguing society, it is important that we understand how to interact – and care for – those around us. For those suffering from an illness, it is equally important to comprehend your options and the illness itself.

Before we can understand mental illness, however, we must define what, precisely the phrase means. In simple terms, a mental illness is a health condition that interferes with a person’s ability to think, engage in relationships, and function in their daily life. They may also experience disruptions in their emotional state and have difficulty with the activities of daily living.

Who Is Affected by Mental Illness?

Mental illness and mental health conditions can affect people of all ages, races, and genders. It is experienced by members of all religions and every economic class. While the young and elderly are especially susceptible, there is no limit when it comes to age range. Members of all sexual orientations can have mental illness as well. In short: no one is immune.

Beyond those directly affected, family members, spouses, friends, co-workers, and public safety officials are touched by the illness as well – albeit in a different manner. Knowing how to interact with and help loved ones with mental illness cope is crucial to having a healthy relationship.

Because of all of this, having access to a mental illness FAQ or mental health guide to frequently asked questions is of utmost importance.

What are the Causes of Mental Illness?

There are many misconceptions regarding what causes or leads to a mental illness. The truth of the matter is, there may not always be a discernible cause. Movies like to portray every mental illness as being caused by a traumatic event, but in reality, this is not the case. While it is not an exact science, research indicates that mental health conditions are caused by a mix of factors, including biology, genetics, social triggers, traumatic events, and even environment.

Other factors, such as overall health habits, drugs, and alcohol, can also play a part, as well as add to one’s condition and mental well-being.

Is There a Cure for Mental Illness?

While there is may be no definitive cure for a given mental illness, those suffering from them can receive treatment and recover from their condition. Many individuals that have a mental illness lead happy, productive, fulfilling lives. The key is receiving proper treatment and seeking help as soon as possible. Part of this lies in a correct diagnosis; if you suspect that you or a loved one has a mental health condition, seek help right away.

Sticking to your treatment program is essential to your recovery and studies show that compliant patients are far more likely to recover than the non-compliant.

Healthy lifestyle choices, such as a good diet and exercise regimen may also help the treatment process. It also leads to good overall health.

Common Mental Illness Treatments

There are many different forms of mental illness and, accordingly, there are many types of treatment available. Common treatment options for mental illness include medication, therapy, and group sessions. Also, setting up a support system of loved ones and friends is pivotal to the recovery of someone with mental illness. Your case manager will help you choose the right treatment options and build a support structure as well.

Are People with Mental Illness Crazy?

This is a common myth or misconception that we hear, and the answer is an unequivocal: no. People that suffer from forms of mental illness are the same as everyone else. They are policemen and women, school teachers, wives, husbands, doctors, and children. Mental illness simply means that they have a mental health condition that affects their day-to-do living activities.

In short, people with mental illness are not crazy.

Where Do I Turn When I Suspect I have a Mental Illness?

There are many options for those that suspect they or a loved one has a mental illness. Gateway Counseling Center, located in Boynton Beach, can help you get on the path to mental wellness. We hope our quick mental illness FAQ has helped you begin your journey!