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what is mental illness? | |
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symptoms | |
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facts & myths | |
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good advice | |
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Mental illness is not rare, not just something that happens to other families, in other neighborhoods. "One in five individuals is affected by mental health problems at some point during his or her life. Only one is four of these individuals ever receive treatment." (Surgeon General's Report on Mental Health, 1998)
There is a great range in the type and severity of mental problems. Often people with mental illness can function and make valuable contributions. President Abraham Lincoln struggled with depression, and is esteemed as one of the great U.S. presidents.
Patients and their families must cope with disturbing symptoms as they seek healing and a normal life. All of us are responsible for treating every person, without exception, with respect and compassion.
The Mental Health Association of Maryland serves as the National Institute of Mental Health Outreach Partner in Maryland to deliver the most current and accurate information about mental health and mental illness to the public.
What is mental health?
Mental health is how we think about life or issues,
how we feel about ourselves and others, and how
we act in handling change, stress and other things
that happen to us.
With good mental health, you feel good about yourself,
feel relaxed with other people, and handle tasks and
problems easily.
Taking good care of your mental health is just as
important as taking good care of your body. If you had
a broken bone, you would go to a doctor. If you have
a mental health problem, you should seek treatment.
Common mental and emotional difficulties include the following:
• anxiety disorders
• substance abuse
•
Alzheimer’s disease
• phobias
Personal problems, such as grief over the death of a loved one
or nervous “butterflies” before
a public presentation,
are normal. If symptoms interfere with an
ability to be satisfied and effective at work or school and in personal relationships,
it’s a good idea to seek professional help.
Click here to learn
more about
the symptoms of mental illness.
"We envision a future when everyone with a mental illness will recover, a future when mental illnesses can be prevented or cured, a future when mental illnesses are detected early, and a future when everyone with a mental illness at any stage of life has access to effective treatment and supports— essentials for living, working, learning and participating fully in the community."
Vision Statement, The President’s New Freedom Commission on Mental Health, 2003
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