Talking about mental illness can be hard. There is a stigma that surrounds mental health and mental illness. It can prevent people from getting the support and help they need. But mental illness is a common problem. In fact, about 1 in 5 people will experience some sort of mental illness in their lifetime. So, don’t be afraid to reach out for help. Your family doctor is a good place to start.
Talking to Your Doctor About Mental Health
For some people, the thought of talking to their doctor about their mental health is scary. But getting treatment for mental illness is important. It rarely goes away on its own. Left untreated, it can get worse, lead to other health problems, or last for a long time. Deciding to talk to your doctor about your mental health is the first step on your journey to feeling better.
Start the Conversation
Talking to your family doctor about your mental health can be tough. Use this form as a way to get the conversation started.
Warning Signs of Mental Illness
Warning signs of mental illness vary by person and problem. In this article, discover some of the most common signs of mental illness. Talk to your doctor if more than one of these occur. Also note if they happen suddenly.
How Your Emotions Affect Your Health
Sorting out the causes of sadness, stress, and anxiety in your life can help you manage your emotional and physical health. This article offers helpful tips on how to improve your overall wellbeing by managing your mental health.
Mental Health Diagnosis: What’s Next?
Receiving a diagnosis of a mental health condition can be overwhelming. This article outlines things you should consider after diagnosis. It’s important to take the diagnosis seriously and take action. Take comfort in knowing treatment is available.
Your Child’s Mental Health
Poor mental health can negatively affect how a child feels, thinks, and behaves. Early detection and treatment can help.
Depression in Older Adults
Depression is common in adults who are more than 65 years of age. However, it is not a normal part of growing older. Older adults can be depressed for many reasons.
Stop the Stigma
Myth: Mental health problems are not that common.
Fact: Mental health problems are very common. About 1 of every 5 people will experience a mental health issue in a given year. One of every 25 has a serious mental health disorder. These include anxiety, major depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
Myth: Mental health problems are a sign of weakness.
Fact: Mental illness has nothing to do with strength or weakness. It is a medical disorder that needs treatment in the same way an infection or broken bone needs treatment. If you need help with a mental issue, you are not weak.
Myth: People with mental health issues are violent or dangerous.
Fact: A large majority of mentally ill people are not violent. Only about 7% of violent acts are committed by a person with symptoms of mental illness. In fact, people with serious mental health issues are 10 times more likely to be a victim of violence.
Read More About Mental Health