What is mental illness?

Mental illness encompasses conditions that affect a person’s thoughts, feelings, behavior, or mood, significantly influencing daily life and relationships. If you suspect you have a mental health condition, remember you’re not alone. Many hesitate to discuss these issues, though they are quite common. Here are some statistics to consider: 

1 in 5

U.S. adults experience mental illness each year 

1 in 20

U.S. adults experience serious mental illness annually

1 in 6

U.S. youth aged 6-17 face a mental health disorder each year

50%

of all lifetime mental illnesses begin by age 14; 75% by age 24

Mental health conditions stem from complex, interconnected causes such as genetics, environment, and lifestyle choices. Stressful jobs, home life, or traumatic events can heighten vulnerability, while biochemical processes and brain structure also contribute. 

It’s crucial to understand that mental illness is not a reflection of personal failure or familial fault. Recovery is achievable, particularly with early treatment and proactive engagement in the recovery process. Active participation in social life, school, and work can be integral to managing and overcoming mental health challenges. 

Young lives at risk:

What we can do to prevent teen suicide

Mental health crises and suicides have severe impacts on individuals, families, and communities. Those experiencing mental health issues often end up in emergency situations, or worse, may lose their lives. Suicidal thoughts are notably prevalent among teens and young adults, with about 11% of those aged 18-25 and nearly 20% of high school students reporting serious considerations of suicide. The rate of suicide deaths among 15-24-year-olds in the U.S. was approximately 14.5 per 100,000 in 2022.

However, there is hope. The gap between those contemplating suicide and those who die by suicide is vast, indicating many opportunities for intervention. By recognizing and supporting these young individuals, we can help prevent these potential tragedies.

Help is available

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, call or text 988 or click here.

11%

of those aged 18-25, and 

20%

of high school students seriously consider suicide

Mental illness conditions

Mental illness, also referred to as a mental health disorder, includes a variety of conditions that impact your mood, thinking, and behavior. While mental illness was once shrouded in mystery and fear, significant advancements have been made in both understanding these conditions and developing effective treatments. Despite this progress, many questions about mental illness remain, and the lingering fear associated with these conditions can still obstruct people from seeking the help they need.

Ongoing research continues to enhance our knowledge of the brain and mental illnesses, leading to increasingly effective treatments. Here are some common mental health disorders:

  • Anxiety Disorders
  • Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADD/ADHD)
  • Bipolar Disorder
  • Borderline Personality Disorder
  • Depression
  • Dissociative Disorders
  • Eating Disorders
  • Obsessive-compulsive Disorder (OCD)
  • Post-traumatic Stress Disorder
  • Psychosis
  • Schizoaffective Disorder
  • Schizophrenia

Learn More

The impact of stigma on people with mental illness 

People with serious mental illnesses often endure both the symptoms of their conditions and the stigma fueled by misconceptions about mental health. This stigma can block access to essential life opportunities like employment, safe housing, healthcare, and social interactions. While research into mental illness has progressed, studies on its associated stigma are relatively new. Existing research on other minority groups' stigmas helps provide a broader understanding of the issues. 

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