Mental health is important in every stage of life. From childhood to adolescence through adulthood. Mental health includes emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel and act. It also determines how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices.

​

Nearly one in five adults experience some form of mental illness.

One in 24 have a serious mental illness.

One in 12 have a diagnosable substance use disorder.

Mental illness is treatable.

​

The number one diagnosed mental disorder is anxiety, and it impacts approximately 40 million adults, 18 and older. Anxiety causes people to experience distress and fear. Another form of mental illness is schizophrenia, and while there is no cure for schizophrenia experts continue to study genetics, conducting behavioral research, and use advanced imaging to look at the brain structure and function.

 

At any one time, a diverse set of individuals, family, community, and structural factors may combine to protect or undermine mental health. Although most people are resilient, people who are exposed to adverse circumstances – including poverty, violence, disability, and inequality are at higher risk. Most people do not have access to effective care. Health systems have not yet adequately responded to the needs of people with mental disorders and are significantly under resourced.
 

The gap between the need for treatment and its provision is wide all over the world. For example, only 29% of people with psychosis and only one third of people with depression receive formal mental health care.

 

People with mental disorders also require social support, including support in developing and maintaining personal, family, and social relationships. People with mental disorders may also need support for educational programs, employment, housing, and participation in other meaningful activities.