Mental Illness: How Many People Suffer From This?
Mental illness is a serious issue that affects a growing number of people each year. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, an estimated one in five adults in America experiences a mental illness in any given year. Of those, nearly 10 million – or one in 25 – adults in America live with a serious mental illness.
Mental Illness: What Are the Signs?
The signs of mental illness can vary greatly depending on the individual and the type of illness. Some of the most common signs include:
- Depression – feelings of sadness, worthlessness, or hopelessness that last for weeks or months at a time
- Anxiety – intense feelings of fear or panic, often accompanied by physical symptoms such as sweating, shaking, or difficulty breathing
- Mania – unusually elevated or irritable mood, often accompanied by racing thoughts, impulsive behavior, or excessive optimism
- Psychosis – loss of touch with reality, often accompanied by hallucinations or delusions
It is important to note that these symptoms may not be present in every case. Some people may experience only a few of these signs, while others may experience many of them.
Mental Illness: When Does It Begin?
Mental illness can start at any age, but research suggests that half of all chronic mental illness begins by the age of 14 and three-quarters by the age of 24. This suggests that early intervention is critical for effective treatment.
Unfortunately, many people do not seek help for mental health issues until the symptoms become too severe to ignore. This can lead to long-term complications, such as social isolation, disrupted relationships, substance abuse, unemployment, and even suicide.
Mental Illness: What Can Be Done?
The first step in treating mental illness is recognizing that something is wrong. People who are experiencing symptoms of mental illness should seek help from a mental health professional as soon as possible.
A mental health professional can diagnose the type of illness and provide an appropriate treatment plan. Treatments may include medication, therapy, or a combination of both.
In addition to professional help, there are also things that people can do on their own to help manage the symptoms of mental illness. These include:
- Exercise – regular physical activity can help reduce stress and improve mood
- Healthy Eating – eating a balanced diet can help maintain energy levels and improve overall health
- Sleep – getting enough restful sleep can help regulate mood and improve concentration
- Limit Substance Use – alcohol and drugs can worsen symptoms of mental illness and should be avoided if possible
- Find Support – connecting with others who understand can provide comfort and help manage symptoms
These measures can help people manage their symptoms, but they should not be used in place of professional help. Mental illness is a complex condition that requires specialized treatment.
Conclusion
Mental illness is a serious issue that affects a growing number of people each year. It is important to recognize the signs of mental illness and seek professional help as soon as possible. In addition to professional help, there are also lifestyle changes that people can make to help manage their symptoms. With the right help and support, people can live healthy, fulfilling lives.
