Mental illnesses are health conditions involving changes in emotion, thinking or behavior (or a combination of these). It can be associated with distress and/or problems functioning in social, work or family activities.
Mental illness is common. In any given year
- More than one in five adults in the U.S. has a diagnosable mental disorder.
- One in 20 adults has a serious mental illness.
- One in six adults has a substance use disorder (including alcohol use disorder).
Half of all chronic mental illness begins by age 14. Mental illness is treatable. The vast majority of individuals with mental illness continue to function in their daily lives.
Mental health vs Mental illness
Here you know clear difference between mental health and mental illness:
Mental health
Involves effective functioning in daily activities resulting in:
- Productive activities (such as in work, school or caregiving).
- Healthy relationships.
- Ability to adapt to change and cope with adversity.
Mental health is the foundation for emotions, thinking, communication, learning, resilience, hope and self-esteem. The Mental health is also key to relationships, personal and emotional well-being and contributing to community or society. It is a component of overall well-being. Many people who have a mental illness do not want to talk about it. But mental illness is nothing to be ashamed of! It is a medical condition, just like heart disease or diabetes. And mental health conditions are treatable.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), mental health is a state of well-being where every individual realizes their potential and can cope with normal stresses of life.
Mental illness
Refers collectively to all diagnosable mental disorders health conditions involving:
- Significant changes in thinking, emotion and/or behavior.
- Distress and/or problems functioning in social, work or family activities.
Mental illness does not discriminate; it can affect anyone regardless of your age, gender, geography, income, social status, race, ethnicity, religion/spirituality, sexual orientation, background or other aspect of cultural identity. Mental illnesses take many forms. Some are mild and only interfere in limited ways with daily life, such as some phobias (abnormal fears). Other mental health conditions are so severe that a person may need care in a hospital.
Diagnosis
Mental illnesses can be related to or mimic a medical condition. For example, depressive symptoms can relate to a thyroid condition. Therefore, a mental health diagnosis often involves a full health evaluation including a physical exam. This may include blood work and/or neurological tests.
People of diverse cultures and backgrounds may express mental health conditions differently. For example, some are more likely to come to a health care professional with concerns about physical symptoms that are caused by a mental health condition. Some cultures view and describe mental health conditions in different ways from most doctors in the U.S.
Stigma around mental illness and treatment prevents many people from seeking needed treatment.
Treatment and Self-help
The diagnosis of a mental disorder is not the same as a need for treatment. Need for treatment takes into consideration how severe the symptoms are, how much symptoms cause distress and affect daily living, the risks and benefits of available treatments and other factors.
Mental health treatment is based upon an individualized plan developed collaboratively with a mental health clinician and an individual (and family members if the individual desires). It may include psychotherapy (talk therapy), medication or other treatments. Often a combination of therapy and medication is most effective. Complementary and alternative therapies are also increasingly being used.
Self-help and support can be very important to an individual’s coping, recovery and well-being. Lifestyle changes, such as good nutrition, exercise, and adequate sleep with good sleep hygiene can support mental health and recovery.
Let’s Talk
It’s okay to ask for help. Seeking support is the first step toward healing. At Aleez Neuro Psychiatric, we are committed to making mental health care accessible, affordable, and effective for all.
Book your consultation today and take the first step toward mental wellness.
