Mental illness may affect anyone regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, age, sexual orientation, or economic status. Mental illnesses are biological brain disorders that, left untreated, often result in a compromised ability to cope with the ordinary demands of life. If you or someone you know has a mental illness, you are not alone. Over 250,000 people in Wisconsin and 11.4 million people in the
United States live with a serious mental illness. Mental health problems affect not only the individual, but also those close to him or her. As many as 1 in 4 families is affected. Mental illnesses strike individuals in the prime of their lives, often during adolescence and young adulthood. Early identification and treatment are of vital importance. Treatment works. The best treatments for serious mental illnesses are highly effective. Between 70-90% of individuals experience reduced symptoms and improved quality of life with a combination of medication, psychosocial treatments, and personal support. Recovery is possible. Many people living with serious mental illnesses take medications to help control symptoms. They learn symptom management techniques, get involved in supportive counseling, attend self-help groups, explore vocational rehabilitation, and seek out peer support. These opportunities can help individuals manage their illnesses and focus on recovering personal meaning, productive outlets, and satisfaction of their lives.
