Mental health is a state of well-being that allows individuals to realize their abilities, cope with life’s challenges, work productively and contribute to their communities. It is a complex mix of individual, family and community factors that protect or undermine people’s ability to function and thrive. People with a mental illness may have difficulty coping or finding employment, have trouble getting the help they need because of stigma or are at increased risk of suicide.
Mental illness is just as real as any physical illness and needs to be addressed in the same way. It is a tragedy that so many people who are suffering do not get the treatment they need and end up in crisis, sometimes resulting in suicide. Every death by suicide comes at a staggering cost, not only to the person who died but also to those left behind.
Awareness efforts can help to change that by providing people with the tools they need to know what signs and symptoms to watch for and where to find resources. In addition, substantial research shows that when people have contact with someone who has a mental illness – especially if that person speaks openly about their experience and provides information on how to seek help – it can dramatically reduce stigma.