Mental Illness Facts Mental illness is very common. Psychiatric emergencies are rare but when they occur, it is very likely that law enforcement will be called upon to intervene. Treatment for mental illness is effective. Most persons suffering from mental illness are not receiving treatment. Ignorance about mental illness leads to discrimination and social stigma.

What Causes Mental Illness? Genetics Vulnerability Biochemical change Environmental factors: traumatic events stressors Genetics. Many genes can contribute to the development of MI, but just because a person has a gene doesn’t mean they will experience MI. Ongoing studies will help us better understand which genes play a role in which disorders. Trauma. A traumatic event such as a death, war or sexual assault. The type of trauma—and a person’s age—affects whether a traumatic event will result in onset of symptoms. Substance use. The use of marijuana, LSD, amphetamines and other substances can increase the risk in people who are already vulnerable. It is not a case of nature VERSUS nurture; instead nature AND nurture play a factor in the development of mental illness

Mental Illness is Common Mental illness is more common than cancer, diabetes or heart disease. (NIMH, 1999) 1 in every 5 adults in America will experience a mental illness 1 in 25 adults in America live with a serious mental illness 50% of chronic mental illness begins by the age of 14 75% of chronic mental illness begins by the age of 24 Mental illness can affect persons of all ages, races, socio-economic levels, religions, educational background and gender. Ignorance about mental illness leads to discrimination and social stigma. Huge continuum of experiences with symptomology “A flaw in chemistry, not in character”

Psychosis Psychosis: 1 out of 100 people will experience an episode Refers to difficulty in differentiating reality from fantasy. Symptom, not an illness May accompany Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Psychosis NOS, Paranoia, post-partum depression, other psychiatric and medical illnesses May be substance/medication-induced Symptoms are the physiological response to the substance and may cease after removal of the agent. Psychotic disorders can be the direct consequence of a medical condition Most people report psychosis as frightening and confusing Medications issues can cause psychosis Direct consequence of medical condition: auto-immune, Huntington’s, Alzeiheimers

Schizophrenia 1.1% Americans live with schizophrenia Interferes with the ability to think clearly, manage emotions, make decisions and relate to others Age of Onset: Men: Late teens, early 20s Women: Late 20s, early 30s Rare in person younger than 12 or older than 40 Affects men and women equally Can be difficult to identify in youth due to typical issues i.e. change of friends, drop in grades, sleep problems and irritability.

Bipolar Disorder Manic Episode 2.9% of Americans live with bipolar disorder Formerly known as manic-depressive disorder Average age of onset is 25 Individual will experience major depressive and manic episode(s) Depressive Episode 5+ symptoms present for at least 2 weeks Manic Episode 3+ symptoms are present for at least 1 week

Mania Period of abnormally elevated, euphoric mood Racing thoughts Increased irritability Easily distracted Increased goal-directed activity and energy Excessive involvement in activities that have high potential for painful consequences (financially, sexually, etc) Period of abnormally elevated, euphoric mood Inflated self-esteem Decreased need for sleep More talkative than usual or pressure to keep talking Increased risk of suicide attempts

What is anxiety? 18.1% of Americans live with an anxiety disorder Physical Symptoms Pounding or racing heart and shortness of breath Upset stomach (frequent urination or diarrhea Sweating, tremors and twitches Headaches, fatigue, insomnia Emotional Symptoms Feelings of apprehension or dread Feeling of tense and jumpy Restlessness or irritability Anticipating the worst and watching for signs of danger Everyone experiences anxiety can be motivational Fear and distress are overwhelming and prevent us from doing everyday things

For More Information info@namigc.org NAMI – National Alliance on Mental Illness Mission: To provide hope and improve the quality of life for those whose lives are affected by mental illness, by providing information and referrals, education, support, advocacy, and active community outreach. Contact: NAMI CHICAGO 1536 W. Chicago Avenue 312-563-0445 www.namichicago.org info@namigc.org