Frequently Asked Questions About Mental Health
Everything you need to know as you start your mental health journey.
What is a mental illness? Why might someone have one, and what does it mean? The fundamentals of mental health are important for understanding your own needs, but might not be discussed in the workplace, so Illuminate Mental Health Resources is here to fill in the blanks.
What does it mean to have a mental illness?
Mental illnesses are health conditions that disrupt a person's thoughts, emotions, relationships, and daily functioning. They fall along a spectrum of severity and interference in daily life, and mean nothing about a person's character, intelligence, or willpower. They can be treated with a combination of social support and medication, and as many as 70-90% of people who receive treatment will see decreased symptoms and improved quality of life.
What can cause mental health problems?
Mental health issues can be caused by psychological, biological, or social issues (or some combination of the three). Often, stress can exacerbate mental health issues and increase their interference in daily life. Mental health conditions (like schizophrenia, chronic depression, etc.) are also exacerbated by stress, but are usually genetic and generally mainfest in adolescence. Regardless of if you're dealing with a mental illness or a mental health issue, there are resources available that can help.
How do I know if I need help?
If your beliefs , thoughts , feelings or behaviours have a significant impact on your ability to function in what might be considered a normal or ordinary way, it is important to seek help.
Can a mental illness be cured?
It is often more realistic and helpful to find out what helps with the issues you face. Talking, counselling, medication, friendships, exercise, good sleep and nutrition, and meaningful occupation can all help.