Mental Illness
Definition
Mental illness is best described as a medical condition that affects thinking, feeling, or mood. When your ability to cope with the demands of daily life becomes disrupted, you may be diagnosed with a mental illness, of which there are many different kinds (depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, etc.). Trying to deal with a mental illness can be emotional, confusing, and isolating; and can prevent you from living a full, happy, and successful life. But as damaging as they can be, mental illnesses are treatable.
Key Things to Know About Mental Illness
- A mental illness diagnosis can be helpful in getting the treatment you need.
- Many treatments are available to help you cope and live a successful and fulfilling life.
Common Misconceptions About Mental Illness
- People with mental illness are dangerous
- Mental illness is a lack of discipline problem
- People with mental illness are criminals
- People aren’t trying hard enough
- Mental illness is caused by bad parenting
- Vaccines cause mental illness
More Resources:
- The Fight to Destigmatize Mental Illness (Blog Article)