What Do You Think of Mental Illness?

What do you think of when you think of mental illness? A brain that doesn't behave the way you think it should? Or one that takes you to some pretty dark places? Or keeps you up in the middle of the night? Do you think of the fun other people seem to be having around you? Or do you think of someone you wish was still around? Whatever you think of mental illness, don't think you're alone. Nearly half of American Adults will experience some form of mental health condition in their lifetime. That means when you're at the office, the grocery, or grabbing coffee, you're likely standing right next to someone who can relate to what you or a loved one are going through. But about half of people living with a mental health condition have received no care in the past year, which can lead to unemployment, substance abuse, homelessness, incarceration, and suicide. In the United States, the cost of untreated mental illness is more than 100 billion dollars each year, but what we really lose is so much greater. It's time we worked together so everyone can live healthier, happier lives. We need public education and programming that supports everyone's journey to mental health and well-being We need services in place to support people whose journeys are a little rockier. And we need research so we can be more effective along the way. It's time to think differently about mental illness. For more information, and to learn what you can do for yourself or someone else, visit mentalhealthamerica.net