🕷️ Crawler Inspector

URL Lookup

Direct Parameter Lookup

Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 102 (from laksa095)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa102.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/what-is-mental-illness\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/what-is-mental-illness\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/what-is-mental-illness","crawl_time":1776693520,"first_indexed_time":1459257283,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"org,psychiatry!www,\/patients-families\/what-is-mental-illness s443","src_root_hash":"3208705627035071702","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Psychiatry.org - What is Mental Illness?","meta_descriptions":["Learn about mental illness, diagnosis and treatment"],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"ver en español\nMental illnesses are health conditions involving changes in emotion, thinking or behavior (or a combination of these). Mental illnesses can be associated with distress and\/or problems functioning in social, work or family activities.\nMental illness is common. In any given year\nMore than one in five adults\nin the U.S. has a diagnosable mental disorder.\nOne in 20\n adults has a serious mental illness*.\nOne in six adults\n has a substance use disorder (including alcohol use disorder).\nHalf of all chronic mental illness\nbegins by age 14.\nMental illness is treatable. The vast majority of individuals with mental illness continue to function in their daily lives.\nAbout Mental Health\nMental\nHealth\nMental\nIllness\nInvolves effective functioning in daily activities resulting in:\nProductive activities (such as in work, school or caregiving).\nHealthy relationships.\nAbility to adapt to change and cope with adversity.\nRefers collectively to all diagnosable mental disorders — health conditions involving:\nSignificant changes in thinking, emotion and\/or behavior.\nDistress and\/or problems functioning in social, work or family activities.\nMental health is the foundation for emotions, thinking, communication, learning, resilience, hope and self-esteem. Mental health is also key to relationships, personal and emotional well-being and contributing to community or society. Mental health is a component of overall well-being. It can influence and be influenced by physical health. (See\nLifestyle to Support Mental Health\n.)\nMany people who have a mental illness do not want to talk about it. But mental illness is nothing to be ashamed of! It is a medical condition, just like heart disease or diabetes. And mental health conditions are treatable. We are continually expanding our understanding of how the human brain works, and treatments are available to help people successfully manage mental health conditions.\nMental illness does not discriminate; it can affect anyone regardless of your age, gender, geography, income, social status, race, ethnicity, religion\/spirituality, sexual orientation, background or other aspect of cultural identity. While mental illness can occur at any age,\nthree-fourths of all mental illness begins by age 24\n.\nMental illnesses take many forms. Some are mild and only interfere in limited ways with daily life, such as some phobias (abnormal fears). Other mental health conditions are so severe that a person may need care in a hospital. Similar to other medical illnesses, the optimal ways to provide care depend on the illness and the severity of its impact.\nDiagnosis\nMental health conditions are treatable and improvement is possible. Many people with mental health conditions return to full functioning. Some mental illness is preventable.\nIt is not always clear when a problem with mood or thinking has become serious enough to be a mental health concern. Sometimes, for example, a low or depressed mood is normal, such as when a person experiences the loss of a loved one. But if that depressed mood continues to cause distress or gets in the way of normal functioning, the person may benefit from professional care. Family or friends may recognize changes or problems that a person doesn’t see in themselves.\nSome mental illnesses can be related to or mimic a medical condition. For example, depressive symptoms can relate to a thyroid condition. Therefore, a mental health diagnosis often involves a full health evaluation including a physical exam. This may include blood work and\/or neurological tests.\nPeople of diverse cultures and backgrounds may express mental health conditions differently. For example, some are more likely to come to a health care professional with concerns about physical symptoms that are caused by a mental health condition. Some cultures view and describe mental health conditions in different ways from most doctors in the U.S.\nStigma around mental illness and treatment prevents many people from seeking needed treatment.\nTreatment and Self-help\nThe diagnosis of a mental disorder is not the same as a need for treatment. Need for treatment takes into consideration how severe the symptoms are, how much symptoms cause distress and affect daily living, the risks and benefits of available treatments and other factors (for example, psychiatric symptoms complicating other illnesses).\nMental health treatment is based upon an individualized plan developed collaboratively with a mental health clinician and an individual (and family members if the individual desires). It may include\npsychotherapy\n(talk therapy), medication or other treatments. Often a combination of therapy and medication is most effective. Complementary and alternative therapies are also increasingly being used.\nSelf-help and support can be very important to an individual’s coping, recovery and well-being. Lifestyle changes, such as good nutrition, exercise, and adequate sleep with good sleep hygiene can support mental health and recovery. A comprehensive treatment plan may include individual actions (for example,\nlifestyle change\ns, support groups or exercise) that enhance recovery and well-being.\nPrimary care clinicians,\npsychiatrists\nand other mental health clinicians help individuals and families understand mental illnesses and what they can do to control or cope with symptoms in order to improve health, wellness and function.\nNote\n* Serious mental illness is a mental, behavioral or emotional disorder (excluding developmental and substance use disorders) resulting in serious functional impairment, which substantially interferes with or limits one or more major life activities. Examples of serious mental illness include major depressive disorder, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.\nPhysician Review\nIhuoma Njoku, M.D.\nJuly 2025","attrs_markdown":"[Skip to content](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/what-is-mental-illness#main)\n\n[Advocacy Action Center for Members: Federal Policy Updates. Log in to view \\>](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/psychiatrists\/advocacy\/advocacy-action-center)\n\nClose alert\n\n## Advocacy Action Center for Members\nFederal Policy Updates\n\n[Log in to view \\>](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/psychiatrists\/advocacy\/advocacy-action-center)\n\nClose alert\n\n[About APA](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/about-apa)\n\nAbout APA submenu\n\n- [Vision, Mission, Guiding Principles and Goals](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/about-apa\/vision-mission)\n- [Meet Our Organization](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/about-apa\/meet-our-organization)\n- [Read APA Organization Documents and Policies](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/about-apa\/read-apa-organization-documents-and-policies)\n- [Work At APA](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/about-apa\/work-at-apa)\n- [About APA's Headquarters](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/about-apa\/apa-headquarters)\n- [Policy Finder](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/about-apa\/policy-finder)\n- [Contact Us](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/about-apa\/contact-us)\n- [APA Seal of Acceptance](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/about-apa\/apa-seal-of-acceptance)\n\n[APA Publishing](https:\/\/psychiatryonline.org\/)\n\nAPA Publishing submenu\n\n- [American Journal of Psychiatry](https:\/\/psychiatryonline.org\/journal\/ajp?utm_medium=Psychiatry&utm_source=TopNavigation)\n- [Journals](https:\/\/psychiatryonline.org\/?utm_medium=Psychiatry&utm_source=TopNavigation)\n- [Books](https:\/\/psychiatryonline.org\/books)\n- [Psychiatric News](https:\/\/psychiatryonline.org\/journal\/pn?utm_medium=Psychiatry&utm_source=TopNavigation)\n\n[Newsroom](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/news-room)\n\nNewsroom submenu\n\n- [News Releases](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/news-room\/news-releases)\n- [Messages from the APA President](https:\/\/psychnews.psychiatryonline.org\/topic\/news-president?sortBy=Ppub)\n- [Reporting on Mental Health Conditions](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/news-room\/reporting-on-mental-health-conditions)\n- [APA Blogs](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/news-room\/apa-blogs)\n- [Goldwater Rule](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/news-room\/goldwater-rule)\n- [Annual Meeting Press Registration + Guidelines](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/news-room\/annual-meeting-press-registration-guidelines)\n- [APA Public Opinion Polls](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/news-room\/apa-public-opinion-polls)\n- [Reporter Toolkit: Recommendations on Covering the AAPI Community](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/news-room\/recommendations-on-covering-aapi-community)\n- [Comunicados de prensa en español](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/la-salud-mental\/comunicados-de-prensa-en-espanol)\n\n[Advocacy & APAPAC](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/psychiatrists\/advocacy)\n\n[APA Sites](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/)\n\nAPA Sites submenu\n\n- [APA Annual Meeting](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/psychiatrists\/meetings\/annual-meeting)\n- [APA Communities](http:\/\/community.psychiatry.org\/)\n- [APA Foundation](https:\/\/apaf.org\/)\n- [APA JobCentral](https:\/\/jobs.psychiatry.org\/)\n- [APA Learning Center](https:\/\/education.psychiatry.org\/)\n- [APA Publishing](https:\/\/appi.org\/)\n- [Center for Workplace Mental Health](https:\/\/workplacementalhealth.org\/)\n- [Melvin Sabshin, M.D. Library & Archives](https:\/\/www.apaf.org\/library-archives\/)\n- [Psychiatric News](http:\/\/psychnews.psychiatryonline.org\/)\n- [Psychiatry Online](http:\/\/www.psychiatryonline.org\/)\n\n- [Sign In](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/Login)\n\n[![American Psychiatric Association home](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/assets\/images\/logos\/c-logo.svg)](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/)\n\nThis search input has a predictive search function. When 3 letters or more are entered, a number of predictive results appear in a dropdown. Use arrow keys to navigate and use the enter key to go to the page highlighted.\n\nSearch Psychiatry.org\n\nSearch\n\n[RENEW](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/membership\/renew-your-membership) [JOIN](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/membership\/join-apa)\n\nOpen Search Modal\n\n[Dashboard](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/your-dashboard)\n\n# Search\nClose search\n\nSearch Psychiatry.org\n\nSearch\n\n- [Psychiatrists](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/psychiatrists)\n  Psychiatrists submenu\n  - Education\n    ## [Education](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/psychiatrists\/education)\n    - [Annual Meeting](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/psychiatrists\/meetings\/annual-meeting)\n    - [APA Learning Center](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/psychiatrists\/education\/apa-learning-center)\n    - [APA On Demand](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/psychiatrists\/education\/apa-on-demand)\n    - [Books and Journals](https:\/\/www.appi.org\/)\n    - [Certification and Licensure](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/psychiatrists\/education\/certification-and-licensure)\n    - 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[Resources for DB\/SA Leadership](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/membership\/district-branches\/district-branch-resources)\n    - [District Branch Dues for General Members](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/membership\/district-branches\/district-branch-dues-for-general-members)\n    \n    - [District Branch Dues for Residents and Fellows](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/membership\/district-branches\/district-branch-dues-for-residents-and-fellows)\n# What is Mental Illness?\n- ## You are here:\n- [Patients and Families](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families)\n- What is Mental Illness?\n\n- Share\n- Print\n\nWhat is Mental Illness?\n\nLearn about mental illness, diagnosis and treatment\n\n[ver en español](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/la-salud-mental\/%C2%BFque-es-una-enfermedad-mental)\n\nMental illnesses are health conditions involving changes in emotion, thinking or behavior (or a combination of these). Mental illnesses can be associated with distress and\/or problems functioning in social, work or family activities.\n\n**Mental illness is nothing to be ashamed of. It is a medical problem, just like heart disease or diabetes.**\n\nMental illness is common. In any given year\n\n- [More than one in five adults](https:\/\/www.hhs.gov\/about\/news\/2023\/01\/04\/samhsa-announces-national-survey-drug-use-health-results-detailing-mental-illness-substance-use-levels-2021.html) in the U.S. has a diagnosable mental disorder.\n- [One in 20](https:\/\/www.samhsa.gov\/mental-health\/myths-and-facts) adults has a serious mental illness\\*.\n- [One in six adults](https:\/\/www.hhs.gov\/about\/news\/2023\/01\/04\/samhsa-announces-national-survey-drug-use-health-results-detailing-mental-illness-substance-use-levels-2021.html) has a substance use disorder (including alcohol use disorder).\n\nHalf of all chronic mental illness [begins by age 14.](https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/15939837\/)\n\nMental illness is treatable. The vast majority of individuals with mental illness continue to function in their daily lives.\n\n## **About Mental Health**\n| Mental *Health* | Mental *Illness* |\n|---|---|\n| Involves effective functioning in daily activities resulting in: Productive activities (such as in work, school or caregiving). Healthy relationships. Ability to adapt to change and cope with adversity. | Refers collectively to all diagnosable mental disorders — health conditions involving: Significant changes in thinking, emotion and\/or behavior. Distress and\/or problems functioning in social, work or family activities. |\n\nMental health is the foundation for emotions, thinking, communication, learning, resilience, hope and self-esteem. Mental health is also key to relationships, personal and emotional well-being and contributing to community or society. Mental health is a component of overall well-being. It can influence and be influenced by physical health. (See [Lifestyle to Support Mental Health](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/Patients-Families\/Lifestyle-to-Support-Mental-Health).)\n\nMany people who have a mental illness do not want to talk about it. But mental illness is nothing to be ashamed of! It is a medical condition, just like heart disease or diabetes. And mental health conditions are treatable. We are continually expanding our understanding of how the human brain works, and treatments are available to help people successfully manage mental health conditions.\n\nMental illness does not discriminate; it can affect anyone regardless of your age, gender, geography, income, social status, race, ethnicity, religion\/spirituality, sexual orientation, background or other aspect of cultural identity. While mental illness can occur at any age, [three-fourths of all mental illness begins by age 24](https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/15939837\/).\n\nMental illnesses take many forms. Some are mild and only interfere in limited ways with daily life, such as some phobias (abnormal fears). Other mental health conditions are so severe that a person may need care in a hospital. Similar to other medical illnesses, the optimal ways to provide care depend on the illness and the severity of its impact.\n\n## **Diagnosis**\nMental health conditions are treatable and improvement is possible. Many people with mental health conditions return to full functioning. Some mental illness is preventable.\n\nIt is not always clear when a problem with mood or thinking has become serious enough to be a mental health concern. Sometimes, for example, a low or depressed mood is normal, such as when a person experiences the loss of a loved one. But if that depressed mood continues to cause distress or gets in the way of normal functioning, the person may benefit from professional care. Family or friends may recognize changes or problems that a person doesn’t see in themselves.\n\nSome mental illnesses can be related to or mimic a medical condition. For example, depressive symptoms can relate to a thyroid condition. Therefore, a mental health diagnosis often involves a full health evaluation including a physical exam. This may include blood work and\/or neurological tests.\n\nPeople of diverse cultures and backgrounds may express mental health conditions differently. For example, some are more likely to come to a health care professional with concerns about physical symptoms that are caused by a mental health condition. Some cultures view and describe mental health conditions in different ways from most doctors in the U.S.\n\nStigma around mental illness and treatment prevents many people from seeking needed treatment.\n\n## **Treatment and Self-help**\nThe diagnosis of a mental disorder is not the same as a need for treatment. Need for treatment takes into consideration how severe the symptoms are, how much symptoms cause distress and affect daily living, the risks and benefits of available treatments and other factors (for example, psychiatric symptoms complicating other illnesses).\n\nMental health treatment is based upon an individualized plan developed collaboratively with a mental health clinician and an individual (and family members if the individual desires). It may include [psychotherapy](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/Patients-Families\/Psychotherapy) (talk therapy), medication or other treatments. Often a combination of therapy and medication is most effective. Complementary and alternative therapies are also increasingly being used.\n\nSelf-help and support can be very important to an individual’s coping, recovery and well-being. Lifestyle changes, such as good nutrition, exercise, and adequate sleep with good sleep hygiene can support mental health and recovery. A comprehensive treatment plan may include individual actions (for example, [lifestyle change](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/Patients-Families\/Lifestyle-to-Support-Mental-Health)s, support groups or exercise) that enhance recovery and well-being.\n\nPrimary care clinicians, [psychiatrists](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/Patients-Families\/What-is-Psychiatry) and other mental health clinicians help individuals and families understand mental illnesses and what they can do to control or cope with symptoms in order to improve health, wellness and function.\n\n## Note\n\\* Serious mental illness is a mental, behavioral or emotional disorder (excluding developmental and substance use disorders) resulting in serious functional impairment, which substantially interferes with or limits one or more major life activities. Examples of serious mental illness include major depressive disorder, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.\n\n## Physician Review\nIhuoma Njoku, M.D.\n\nJuly 2025\n\nOther resources\n\n## More on Mental Illness\n- [National Institute on Mental Health](http:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/)\n  - [Information on disorders and treatments](https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/topics\/index.shtml)\n- [Mental Health America](https:\/\/mhanational.org\/)\n- [National Alliance on Mental Illness](http:\/\/www.nami.org\/)\n  - [Find Support](https:\/\/www.nami.org\/Find-Support)\n  - [Living with a Mental Health Condition](https:\/\/www.nami.org\/Find-Support\/Living-with-a-Mental-Health-Condition)\n- [Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance](http:\/\/www.dbsalliance.org\/)\n\n## Connect with APA\n- [Facebook](https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/AmericanPsychiatricAssociation)\n- [Twitter](https:\/\/twitter.com\/APAPsychiatric)\n- [LinkedIn](https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/company\/american-psychiatric-association?trk=vsrp_companies_res_name&trkinfo=)\n- [Instagram](https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/apapsychiatric\/)\n- [YouTube](https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/user\/AmericanPsychiatric)\n- [TikTok](https:\/\/www.tiktok.com\/@apapsychiatric)\n\nAPA resources\n\n## Myths and Facts About Mental Health\nRead more in an APA blog post:\n\n[Myths and Facts and Mental Health](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/News-room\/APA-Blogs\/Myths-and-Facts-About-Mental-Health)\n\n## SAMHSA's Treatment Finder\nhttps:\/\/findtreatment.gov\/locator\/widget\/220?lang=en\n\n## Finding Help\nOnline locator services for various types of mental health professionals:\n\n- [Find a Psychiatrist](http:\/\/finder.psychiatry.org\/) (American Psychiatric Association)\n- [SAMHSA Treatment Locator](https:\/\/findtreatment.samhsa.gov\/) (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services)\n- [ADAA Finding a Therapist (Anxiety and Depression Association of America)](https:\/\/members.adaa.org\/page\/FATMain)\n- [Psychologist Locator](http:\/\/locator.apa.org\/) (American Psychological Association)\n- [Finding a Therapist](http:\/\/therapists.psychologytoday.com\/rms\/prof_search.php) (*Psychology Today* Listings for psychologists, psychiatrists, therapists, counselors, group therapy and treatment centers)\n- [Group Psychotherapy](https:\/\/portal.agpa.org\/certifications\/directory) (American Group Psychotherapy Association)\n- [Certified Counselors](https:\/\/www.nbcc.org\/search\/counselorfind) (National Board for Certified Counselors)\n- **988 Crisis Line**. 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[Resident-Fellow Census](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/residents-medical-students\/medical-students\/resident-fellow-census)\n\n- Back\n- [**Addiction and Substance Use Disorders**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/addiction-substance-use-disorders)\n- [What Is a Substance Use Disorder?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/addiction-substance-use-disorders\/what-is-a-substance-use-disorder)\n- [Expert Q\\&A: Addiction and Substance Use Disorders](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/addiction-substance-use-disorders\/expert-q-and-a)\n\n- Back\n- [**Anxiety Disorders**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/anxiety-disorders)\n- [What are Anxiety Disorders?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/anxiety-disorders\/what-are-anxiety-disorders)\n- [Expert Q\\&A: Anxiety Disorders](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/anxiety-disorders\/expert-q-and-a)\n\n- Back\n- [**Attention-Deficit\/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/adhd)\n- [What is ADHD?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/adhd\/what-is-adhd)\n- [Expert Q\\&A: ADHD](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/adhd\/expert-q-and-a)\n- [ADHD in Adults](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/adhd\/adhd-in-adults)\n\n- Back\n- [**Autism Spectrum Disorder**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/autism)\n- [What Is Autism Spectrum Disorder?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/autism\/what-is-autism-spectrum-disorder)\n- [Expert Q\\&A: Autism Spectrum Disorder](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/autism\/expert-q-and-a)\n\n- Back\n- [**Bipolar Disorders**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/bipolar-disorders)\n- [What Are Bipolar Disorders?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/bipolar-disorders\/what-are-bipolar-disorders)\n- [Expert Q\\&A: Bipolar Disorder](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/bipolar-disorders\/expert-q-and-a)\n\n- Back\n- [**Climate Change and Mental Health Connections**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/climate-change-and-mental-health-connections)\n- [How Extreme Weather Events Affect Mental Health](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/climate-change-and-mental-health-connections\/affects-on-mental-health)\n- [Who Is Affected by Climate Change?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/climate-change-and-mental-health-connections\/who-is-affected-by-climate-change)\n\n- Back\n- [**Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/alzheimers)\n- [What Are Dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/alzheimers\/what-is-alzheimers-disease)\n- [Expert Q\\&A: Dementia and Alzheimer's Disease](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/alzheimers\/expert-q-and-a)\n\n- Back\n- [**Depression**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/depression)\n- [What Is Depression?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/depression\/what-is-depression)\n- [Expert Q\\&A: Depression](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/depression\/expert-q-and-a)\n\n- Back\n- [**Disruptive, Impulse-Control and Conduct Disorders**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/disruptive-impulse-control-and-conduct-disorders)\n- [What are Disruptive, Impulse Control and Conduct Disorders?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/disruptive-impulse-control-and-conduct-disorders\/what-are-disruptive-impulse-control-and-conduct)\n- [Expert Q\\&A: Disruptive, Impulse Control and Conduct Disorders](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/disruptive-impulse-control-and-conduct-disorders\/expert-q-and-a)\n\n- Back\n- [**Dissociative Disorders**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/dissociative-disorders)\n- [What Are Dissociative Disorders?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/dissociative-disorders\/what-are-dissociative-disorders)\n- [Expert Q\\&A: Dissociative Disorders](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/dissociative-disorders\/expert-q-and-a)\n\n- Back\n- [**Eating Disorders**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/eating-disorders)\n- [What are Eating Disorders?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/eating-disorders\/what-are-eating-disorders)\n- [Expert Q\\&A: Eating Disorders](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/eating-disorders\/expert-q-and-a)\n\n- Back\n- [**Gambling Disorder**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/gambling-disorder)\n- [What is Gambling Disorder?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/gambling-disorder\/what-is-gambling-disorder)\n- [Expert Q\\&A: Gambling Disorder](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/gambling-disorder\/expert-q-and-a)\n\n- Back\n- [**Gender Dysphoria**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/gender-dysphoria)\n- [What is Gender Dysphoria?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/gender-dysphoria\/what-is-gender-dysphoria)\n- [Expert Q\\&A: Gender Dysphoria](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/gender-dysphoria\/expert-q-and-a)\n\n- Back\n- [**Hoarding Disorder**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/hoarding-disorder)\n- [What is Hoarding Disorder?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/hoarding-disorder\/what-is-hoarding-disorder)\n- [Expert Q\\&A: Hoarding Disorder](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/hoarding-disorder\/expert-q-and-a)\n\n- Back\n- [**Intellectual Disability**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/intellectual-disability)\n- [What is Intellectual Disability?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/intellectual-disability\/what-is-intellectual-disability)\n- [Expert Q\\&A: Intellectual Disability](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/intellectual-disability\/expert-q-and-a)\n\n- Back\n- [**Neurodevelopmental Disorders**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/neurodevelopment-disorders)\n- [Neurodevelopmental Disorders - Communication Disorders](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/neurodevelopment-disorders\/neurodevelopment-disorders-communication-disorders)\n- [Neurodevelopmental Disorders - Motor Disorders](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/neurodevelopment-disorders\/neurodevelopmental-disorders-motor-disorders)\n\n- Back\n- [**Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/obsessive-compulsive-disorder)\n- [What Is are Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/obsessive-compulsive-disorder\/what-is-obsessive-compulsive-disorder)\n- [Expert Q\\&A: Obsessive-Compulsive and Related Disorders](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/obsessive-compulsive-disorder\/expert-q-and-a)\n\n- Back\n- [**Perinatal Depression (formerly Postpartum)**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/peripartum-depression)\n- [What is Perinatal Depression (formerly Postpartum)?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/peripartum-depression\/what-is-peripartum-depression)\n- [Expert Q\\&A: Perinatal Depression](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/peripartum-depression\/expert-q-and-a)\n\n- Back\n- [**Personality Disorders**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/personality-disorders)\n- [What are Personality Disorders?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/personality-disorders\/what-are-personality-disorders)\n- [Expert Q\\&A: Personality Disorders](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/personality-disorders\/expert-q-and-a)\n\n- Back\n- [**Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/ptsd)\n- [What is Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/ptsd\/what-is-ptsd)\n- [Expert Q\\&A: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/ptsd\/expert-q-and-a)\n\n- Back\n- [**Schizophrenia**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/schizophrenia)\n- [What is Schizophrenia?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/schizophrenia\/what-is-schizophrenia)\n- [Expert Q\\&A: Schizophrenia](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/schizophrenia\/expert-q-and-a)\n\n- Back\n- [**Sleep Disorders**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/sleep-disorders)\n- [What are Sleep Disorders?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/sleep-disorders\/what-are-sleep-disorders)\n- [Expert Q\\&A: Sleep Disorders](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/sleep-disorders\/expert-q-and-a)\n\n- Back\n- [**Somatic Symptom Disorder**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/somatic-symptom-disorder)\n- [What is Somatic Symptom Disorder?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/somatic-symptom-disorder\/what-is-somatic-symptom-disorder)\n- [Expert Q\\&A: Somatic Symptom Disorder](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/somatic-symptom-disorder\/expert-q-and-a)\n\n- Back\n- [**Specific Learning Disorders**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/specific-learning-disorder)\n- [What Are Specific Learning Disorders?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/specific-learning-disorder\/what-is-specific-learning-disorder)\n- [Expert Q\\&A: Specific Learning Disorders](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/specific-learning-disorder\/expert-q-and-a)\n\n- Back\n- [**Technology Addictions: Social Media, Online Gaming, and More**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/technology-addictions-social-media-and-more)\n- [What is Technology Addiction?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/technology-addictions-social-media-and-more\/what-is-technology-addiction)\n- [Expert Q\\&A: Technology Addiction](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/technology-addictions-social-media-and-more\/expert-q-a-technology-addiction)\n\n- Back\n- [**La Salud Mental**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/la-salud-mental)\n- [Adicción a la tecnología: redes sociales, juegos en línea, y más](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/la-salud-mental\/adiccion-a-la-tecnologia-redes-sociales-juegos-en)\n- [Ansiedad](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/la-salud-mental\/ansiedad)\n- [Ayudar a un ser querido a sobrellevar una enfermedad mental](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/la-salud-mental\/ayudar-a-un-ser-querido-a-sobrellevar-una-enfermed)\n- [Cigarrillos electrónicos y vapeo](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/la-salud-mental\/cigarrillos-electronicos-y-vapeo)\n- [Comunicados de prensa en español](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/la-salud-mental\/comunicados-de-prensa-en-espanol)\n- [Conexiones entre el cambio climático y la salud mental](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/la-salud-mental\/conexiones-entre-el-cambio-climatico-y-la-salud-me)\n- [Estilo de vida para apoyar la salud mental](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/la-salud-mental\/estilo-de-vida-para-apoyar-la-salud-mental)\n- [La Salud Mental Allies \/ Aliados de La Salud Mental](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/la-salud-mental\/la-salud-mental-collaborators)\n- [Más temas de salud mental](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/la-salud-mental\/mas-temas-de-salud-mental)\n- [Mitos y Realidades Sobre La Salud Mental](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/la-salud-mental\/mitos-y-realidades-sobre-la-salud-mental)\n- [¿Qué es el DSM?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/la-salud-mental\/%C2%BFque-es-el-dsm)\n- [¿Qué es la psicoterapia?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/la-salud-mental\/que-es-la-psicoterapia)\n- [¿Qué es la psiquiatría?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/la-salud-mental\/%C2%BFque-es-la-psiquiatria)\n- [¿Qué es una enfermedad mental?](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/la-salud-mental\/%C2%BFque-es-una-enfermedad-mental)\n- [Trastorno por consumo de alcohol](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/la-salud-mental\/trastorno-por-consumo-de-alcohol)\n- [Trastorno por consumo de opioides](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/la-salud-mental\/trastorno-por-consumo-de-opioides-1)\n- [Trastorno del espectro autista](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/la-salud-mental\/trastorno-del-espectro-autista)\n- [Trastorno de estrés postraumático (TEPT)](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/la-salud-mental\/trastorno-de-estres-postraumatico-tept)\n- [Hispanic Heritage Month Toolkit](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/la-salud-mental\/hispanic-heritage-month-toolkit)\n- [Guía de medicamentos para padres](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/la-salud-mental\/guia-para-familias-sobre-los-medicamentos)\n- [Trastornos Alimentarios](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/la-salud-mental\/mas-alla-de-las-dietas-y-la-apariencia)\n\n- Back\n- [**Join APA**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/membership\/join-apa)\n- [General Members](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/membership\/join-apa\/general-members)\n- [Early Career Psychiatrists](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/membership\/join-apa\/early-career-psychiatrists)\n- [Residents and 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Back\n- [**Get Involved**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/membership\/get-involved)\n- [Advocacy and APAPAC](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/psychiatrists\/advocacy)\n- [APA\/APAF Fellowships](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/residents-medical-students\/residents\/fellowships)\n- [APA Insider Sessions](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/membership\/get-involved\/apa-insider-sessions)\n- [APA Caucuses](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/membership\/get-involved\/join-a-caucus)\n- [Leadership, Equity and Diversity Institute](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/residents-medical-students\/residents\/fellowships\/additional-opportunities-for-fellows\/lead-institute)\n- [Medical Student Programs](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/residents-medical-students\/medical-students\/medical-student-programs)\n- [Mentorship Program for APA\/APAF Fellows](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/residents-medical-students\/residents\/fellowships\/additional-opportunities-for-fellows\/mentorship-program\/fellowship-mentorship-program)\n- [Minority and Underrepresented (M\/UR) Caucuses](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/psychiatrists\/cultural-competency\/mur-caucuses)\n- [Research Colloquium](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/psychiatrists\/research\/research-colloquium-for-junior-psychiatrist-invest)\n- [APA Communities](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/membership\/get-involved\/apa-communities)\n\n- Back\n- [**Directories, Contact Info & FAQs**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/membership\/contacts-and-frequently-asked-questions)\n- [Contact the Membership Department](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/membership\/contacts-and-frequently-asked-questions\/contact-your-membership-specialist)\n- [Contact Your District Branch](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/about-apa\/Meet-Our-Organization\/district-branches)\n- [Membership FAQs](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/membership\/contacts-and-frequently-asked-questions\/faqs)\n- [Semi-Retired and Retired FAQs](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/membership\/contacts-and-frequently-asked-questions\/semi-retired-and-retired-faqs)\n- [Lump Sum Dues](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/membership\/contacts-and-frequently-asked-questions\/lump-sum-dues)\n- [APA Dues Rate Changes FAQs](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/membership\/contacts-and-frequently-asked-questions\/apa-dues-rate-changes-faqs)\n- [Member Directory](https:\/\/my.psychiatry.org\/s\/membersdirectory)\n- [Assembly Directory](https:\/\/my.psychiatry.org\/s\/searchdirectory?id=a2FWQ0000016VN7)\n- [Components](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/about-apa\/Meet-Our-Organization\/Councils)\n\n- Back\n- [**District Branches**](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/about-apa\/Meet-Our-Organization\/district-branches)\n- [Resources for DB\/SA Leadership](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/membership\/district-branches\/district-branch-resources)\n- [District Branch Dues for General Members](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/membership\/district-branches\/district-branch-dues-for-general-members)\n- [District Branch Dues for Residents and Fellows](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/membership\/district-branches\/district-branch-dues-for-residents-and-fellows)","attrs_readable_markdown":"[ver en español](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/patients-families\/la-salud-mental\/%C2%BFque-es-una-enfermedad-mental)\n\nMental illnesses are health conditions involving changes in emotion, thinking or behavior (or a combination of these). Mental illnesses can be associated with distress and\/or problems functioning in social, work or family activities.\n\nMental illness is common. In any given year\n\n- [More than one in five adults](https:\/\/www.hhs.gov\/about\/news\/2023\/01\/04\/samhsa-announces-national-survey-drug-use-health-results-detailing-mental-illness-substance-use-levels-2021.html) in the U.S. has a diagnosable mental disorder.\n- [One in 20](https:\/\/www.samhsa.gov\/mental-health\/myths-and-facts) adults has a serious mental illness\\*.\n- [One in six adults](https:\/\/www.hhs.gov\/about\/news\/2023\/01\/04\/samhsa-announces-national-survey-drug-use-health-results-detailing-mental-illness-substance-use-levels-2021.html) has a substance use disorder (including alcohol use disorder).\n\nHalf of all chronic mental illness [begins by age 14.](https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/15939837\/)\n\nMental illness is treatable. The vast majority of individuals with mental illness continue to function in their daily lives.\n\n**About Mental Health**\n\n| Mental *Health* | Mental *Illness* |\n|---|---|\n| Involves effective functioning in daily activities resulting in: Productive activities (such as in work, school or caregiving). Healthy relationships. Ability to adapt to change and cope with adversity. | Refers collectively to all diagnosable mental disorders — health conditions involving: Significant changes in thinking, emotion and\/or behavior. Distress and\/or problems functioning in social, work or family activities. |\n\nMental health is the foundation for emotions, thinking, communication, learning, resilience, hope and self-esteem. Mental health is also key to relationships, personal and emotional well-being and contributing to community or society. Mental health is a component of overall well-being. It can influence and be influenced by physical health. (See [Lifestyle to Support Mental Health](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/Patients-Families\/Lifestyle-to-Support-Mental-Health).)\n\nMany people who have a mental illness do not want to talk about it. But mental illness is nothing to be ashamed of! It is a medical condition, just like heart disease or diabetes. And mental health conditions are treatable. We are continually expanding our understanding of how the human brain works, and treatments are available to help people successfully manage mental health conditions.\n\nMental illness does not discriminate; it can affect anyone regardless of your age, gender, geography, income, social status, race, ethnicity, religion\/spirituality, sexual orientation, background or other aspect of cultural identity. While mental illness can occur at any age, [three-fourths of all mental illness begins by age 24](https:\/\/pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/15939837\/).\n\nMental illnesses take many forms. Some are mild and only interfere in limited ways with daily life, such as some phobias (abnormal fears). Other mental health conditions are so severe that a person may need care in a hospital. Similar to other medical illnesses, the optimal ways to provide care depend on the illness and the severity of its impact.\n\n**Diagnosis**\n\nMental health conditions are treatable and improvement is possible. Many people with mental health conditions return to full functioning. Some mental illness is preventable.\n\nIt is not always clear when a problem with mood or thinking has become serious enough to be a mental health concern. Sometimes, for example, a low or depressed mood is normal, such as when a person experiences the loss of a loved one. But if that depressed mood continues to cause distress or gets in the way of normal functioning, the person may benefit from professional care. Family or friends may recognize changes or problems that a person doesn’t see in themselves.\n\nSome mental illnesses can be related to or mimic a medical condition. For example, depressive symptoms can relate to a thyroid condition. Therefore, a mental health diagnosis often involves a full health evaluation including a physical exam. This may include blood work and\/or neurological tests.\n\nPeople of diverse cultures and backgrounds may express mental health conditions differently. For example, some are more likely to come to a health care professional with concerns about physical symptoms that are caused by a mental health condition. Some cultures view and describe mental health conditions in different ways from most doctors in the U.S.\n\nStigma around mental illness and treatment prevents many people from seeking needed treatment.\n\n**Treatment and Self-help**\n\nThe diagnosis of a mental disorder is not the same as a need for treatment. Need for treatment takes into consideration how severe the symptoms are, how much symptoms cause distress and affect daily living, the risks and benefits of available treatments and other factors (for example, psychiatric symptoms complicating other illnesses).\n\nMental health treatment is based upon an individualized plan developed collaboratively with a mental health clinician and an individual (and family members if the individual desires). It may include [psychotherapy](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/Patients-Families\/Psychotherapy) (talk therapy), medication or other treatments. Often a combination of therapy and medication is most effective. Complementary and alternative therapies are also increasingly being used.\n\nSelf-help and support can be very important to an individual’s coping, recovery and well-being. Lifestyle changes, such as good nutrition, exercise, and adequate sleep with good sleep hygiene can support mental health and recovery. A comprehensive treatment plan may include individual actions (for example, [lifestyle change](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/Patients-Families\/Lifestyle-to-Support-Mental-Health)s, support groups or exercise) that enhance recovery and well-being.\n\nPrimary care clinicians, [psychiatrists](https:\/\/www.psychiatry.org\/Patients-Families\/What-is-Psychiatry) and other mental health clinicians help individuals and families understand mental illnesses and what they can do to control or cope with symptoms in order to improve health, wellness and function.\n\n## Note\n\\* Serious mental illness is a mental, behavioral or emotional disorder (excluding developmental and substance use disorders) resulting in serious functional impairment, which substantially interferes with or limits one or more major life activities. Examples of serious mental illness include major depressive disorder, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder.\n\n## Physician Review\nIhuoma Njoku, M.D.\n\nJuly 2025","meta_canonical":null}

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Boilerpipe Text	ver en español Mental illnesses are health conditions involving changes in emotion, thinking or behavior (or a combination of these). Mental illnesses can be associated with distress and/or problems functioning in social, work or family activities. Mental illness is common. In any given year More than one in five adults in the U.S. has a diagnosable mental disorder. One in 20 adults has a serious mental illness. One in six adults has a substance use disorder (including alcohol use disorder). Half of all chronic mental illness begins by age 14. Mental illness is treatable. The vast majority of individuals with mental illness continue to function in their daily lives. About Mental Health Mental Health Mental Illness Involves effective functioning in daily activities resulting in: Productive activities (such as in work, school or caregiving). Healthy relationships. Ability to adapt to change and cope with adversity. Refers collectively to all diagnosable mental disorders — health conditions involving: Significant changes in thinking, emotion and/or behavior. Distress and/or problems functioning in social, work or family activities. Mental health is the foundation for emotions, thinking, communication, learning, resilience, hope and self-esteem. Mental health is also key to relationships, personal and emotional well-being and contributing to community or society. Mental health is a component of overall well-being. It can influence and be influenced by physical health. (See Lifestyle to Support Mental Health .) Many people who have a mental illness do not want to talk about it. But mental illness is nothing to be ashamed of! It is a medical condition, just like heart disease or diabetes. And mental health conditions are treatable. We are continually expanding our understanding of how the human brain works, and treatments are available to help people successfully manage mental health conditions. Mental illness does not discriminate; it can affect anyone regardless of your age, gender, geography, income, social status, race, ethnicity, religion/spirituality, sexual orientation, background or other aspect of cultural identity. While mental illness can occur at any age, three-fourths of all mental illness begins by age 24 . Mental illnesses take many forms. Some are mild and only interfere in limited ways with daily life, such as some phobias (abnormal fears). Other mental health conditions are so severe that a person may need care in a hospital. Similar to other medical illnesses, the optimal ways to provide care depend on the illness and the severity of its impact. Diagnosis Mental health conditions are treatable and improvement is possible. Many people with mental health conditions return to full functioning. Some mental illness is preventable. It is not always clear when a problem with mood or thinking has become serious enough to be a mental health concern. Sometimes, for example, a low or depressed mood is normal, such as when a person experiences the loss of a loved one. But if that depressed mood continues to cause distress or gets in the way of normal functioning, the person may benefit from professional care. Family or friends may recognize changes or problems that a person doesn’t see in themselves. Some mental illnesses can be related to or mimic a medical condition. For example, depressive symptoms can relate to a thyroid condition. Therefore, a mental health diagnosis often involves a full health evaluation including a physical exam. This may include blood work and/or neurological tests. People of diverse cultures and backgrounds may express mental health conditions differently. For example, some are more likely to come to a health care professional with concerns about physical symptoms that are caused by a mental health condition. Some cultures view and describe mental health conditions in different ways from most doctors in the U.S. Stigma around mental illness and treatment prevents many people from seeking needed treatment. Treatment and Self-help The diagnosis of a mental disorder is not the same as a need for treatment. Need for treatment takes into consideration how severe the symptoms are, how much symptoms cause distress and affect daily living, the risks and benefits of available treatments and other factors (for example, psychiatric symptoms complicating other illnesses). Mental health treatment is based upon an individualized plan developed collaboratively with a mental health clinician and an individual (and family members if the individual desires). It may include psychotherapy (talk therapy), medication or other treatments. Often a combination of therapy and medication is most effective. Complementary and alternative therapies are also increasingly being used. Self-help and support can be very important to an individual’s coping, recovery and well-being. Lifestyle changes, such as good nutrition, exercise, and adequate sleep with good sleep hygiene can support mental health and recovery. A comprehensive treatment plan may include individual actions (for example, lifestyle change s, support groups or exercise) that enhance recovery and well-being. Primary care clinicians, psychiatrists and other mental health clinicians help individuals and families understand mental illnesses and what they can do to control or cope with symptoms in order to improve health, wellness and function. Note Serious mental illness is a mental, behavioral or emotional disorder (excluding developmental and substance use disorders) resulting in serious functional impairment, which substantially interferes with or limits one or more major life activities. Examples of serious mental illness include major depressive disorder, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Physician Review Ihuoma Njoku, M.D. July 2025
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## You are here: - [Patients and Families](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families) - What is Mental Illness? - Share - Print What is Mental Illness? Learn about mental illness, diagnosis and treatment [ver en español](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/la-salud-mental/%C2%BFque-es-una-enfermedad-mental) Mental illnesses are health conditions involving changes in emotion, thinking or behavior (or a combination of these). Mental illnesses can be associated with distress and/or problems functioning in social, work or family activities. Mental illness is nothing to be ashamed of. It is a medical problem, just like heart disease or diabetes. Mental illness is common. In any given year - [More than one in five adults](https://www.hhs.gov/about/news/2023/01/04/samhsa-announces-national-survey-drug-use-health-results-detailing-mental-illness-substance-use-levels-2021.html) in the U.S. has a diagnosable mental disorder. - [One in 20](https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/myths-and-facts) adults has a serious mental illness\. - [One in six adults](https://www.hhs.gov/about/news/2023/01/04/samhsa-announces-national-survey-drug-use-health-results-detailing-mental-illness-substance-use-levels-2021.html) has a substance use disorder (including alcohol use disorder). Half of all chronic mental illness [begins by age 14.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15939837/) Mental illness is treatable. The vast majority of individuals with mental illness continue to function in their daily lives. ## About Mental Health* \| Mental Health \| Mental Illness \| \|---\|---\| \| Involves effective functioning in daily activities resulting in: Productive activities (such as in work, school or caregiving). Healthy relationships. Ability to adapt to change and cope with adversity. \| Refers collectively to all diagnosable mental disorders — health conditions involving: Significant changes in thinking, emotion and/or behavior. Distress and/or problems functioning in social, work or family activities. \| Mental health is the foundation for emotions, thinking, communication, learning, resilience, hope and self-esteem. Mental health is also key to relationships, personal and emotional well-being and contributing to community or society. Mental health is a component of overall well-being. It can influence and be influenced by physical health. (See [Lifestyle to Support Mental Health](https://www.psychiatry.org/Patients-Families/Lifestyle-to-Support-Mental-Health).) Many people who have a mental illness do not want to talk about it. But mental illness is nothing to be ashamed of! It is a medical condition, just like heart disease or diabetes. And mental health conditions are treatable. We are continually expanding our understanding of how the human brain works, and treatments are available to help people successfully manage mental health conditions. Mental illness does not discriminate; it can affect anyone regardless of your age, gender, geography, income, social status, race, ethnicity, religion/spirituality, sexual orientation, background or other aspect of cultural identity. While mental illness can occur at any age, [three-fourths of all mental illness begins by age 24](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15939837/). Mental illnesses take many forms. Some are mild and only interfere in limited ways with daily life, such as some phobias (abnormal fears). Other mental health conditions are so severe that a person may need care in a hospital. Similar to other medical illnesses, the optimal ways to provide care depend on the illness and the severity of its impact. ## Diagnosis Mental health conditions are treatable and improvement is possible. Many people with mental health conditions return to full functioning. Some mental illness is preventable. It is not always clear when a problem with mood or thinking has become serious enough to be a mental health concern. Sometimes, for example, a low or depressed mood is normal, such as when a person experiences the loss of a loved one. But if that depressed mood continues to cause distress or gets in the way of normal functioning, the person may benefit from professional care. Family or friends may recognize changes or problems that a person doesn’t see in themselves. Some mental illnesses can be related to or mimic a medical condition. For example, depressive symptoms can relate to a thyroid condition. Therefore, a mental health diagnosis often involves a full health evaluation including a physical exam. This may include blood work and/or neurological tests. People of diverse cultures and backgrounds may express mental health conditions differently. For example, some are more likely to come to a health care professional with concerns about physical symptoms that are caused by a mental health condition. Some cultures view and describe mental health conditions in different ways from most doctors in the U.S. Stigma around mental illness and treatment prevents many people from seeking needed treatment. ## Treatment and Self-help The diagnosis of a mental disorder is not the same as a need for treatment. Need for treatment takes into consideration how severe the symptoms are, how much symptoms cause distress and affect daily living, the risks and benefits of available treatments and other factors (for example, psychiatric symptoms complicating other illnesses). Mental health treatment is based upon an individualized plan developed collaboratively with a mental health clinician and an individual (and family members if the individual desires). It may include [psychotherapy](https://www.psychiatry.org/Patients-Families/Psychotherapy) (talk therapy), medication or other treatments. Often a combination of therapy and medication is most effective. Complementary and alternative therapies are also increasingly being used. Self-help and support can be very important to an individual’s coping, recovery and well-being. Lifestyle changes, such as good nutrition, exercise, and adequate sleep with good sleep hygiene can support mental health and recovery. A comprehensive treatment plan may include individual actions (for example, [lifestyle change](https://www.psychiatry.org/Patients-Families/Lifestyle-to-Support-Mental-Health)s, support groups or exercise) that enhance recovery and well-being. Primary care clinicians, [psychiatrists](https://www.psychiatry.org/Patients-Families/What-is-Psychiatry) and other mental health clinicians help individuals and families understand mental illnesses and what they can do to control or cope with symptoms in order to improve health, wellness and function. ## Note \* Serious mental illness is a mental, behavioral or emotional disorder (excluding developmental and substance use disorders) resulting in serious functional impairment, which substantially interferes with or limits one or more major life activities. Examples of serious mental illness include major depressive disorder, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. ## Physician Review Ihuoma Njoku, M.D. July 2025 Other resources ## More on Mental Illness - [National Institute on Mental Health](http://www.nimh.nih.gov/) - [Information on disorders and treatments](https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/index.shtml) - [Mental Health America](https://mhanational.org/) - [National Alliance on Mental Illness](http://www.nami.org/) - [Find Support](https://www.nami.org/Find-Support) - [Living with a Mental Health Condition](https://www.nami.org/Find-Support/Living-with-a-Mental-Health-Condition) - [Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance](http://www.dbsalliance.org/) ## Connect with APA - [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/AmericanPsychiatricAssociation) - [Twitter](https://twitter.com/APAPsychiatric) - [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/american-psychiatric-association?trk=vsrp_companies_res_name&trkinfo=) - [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/apapsychiatric/) - [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/user/AmericanPsychiatric) - [TikTok](https://www.tiktok.com/@apapsychiatric) APA resources ## Myths and Facts About Mental Health Read more in an APA blog post: [Myths and Facts and Mental Health](https://www.psychiatry.org/News-room/APA-Blogs/Myths-and-Facts-About-Mental-Health) ## SAMHSA's Treatment Finder https://findtreatment.gov/locator/widget/220?lang=en ## Finding Help Online locator services for various types of mental health professionals: - [Find a Psychiatrist](http://finder.psychiatry.org/) (American Psychiatric Association) - [SAMHSA Treatment Locator](https://findtreatment.samhsa.gov/) (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services) - [ADAA Finding a Therapist (Anxiety and Depression Association of America)](https://members.adaa.org/page/FATMain) - [Psychologist Locator](http://locator.apa.org/) (American Psychological Association) - [Finding a Therapist](http://therapists.psychologytoday.com/rms/prof_search.php) (Psychology Today Listings for psychologists, psychiatrists, therapists, counselors, group therapy and treatment centers) - [Group Psychotherapy](https://portal.agpa.org/certifications/directory) (American Group Psychotherapy Association) - [Certified Counselors](https://www.nbcc.org/search/counselorfind) (National Board for Certified Counselors) - 988 Crisis Line. 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Readable Markdown	[ver en español](https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/la-salud-mental/%C2%BFque-es-una-enfermedad-mental) Mental illnesses are health conditions involving changes in emotion, thinking or behavior (or a combination of these). Mental illnesses can be associated with distress and/or problems functioning in social, work or family activities. Mental illness is common. In any given year - [More than one in five adults](https://www.hhs.gov/about/news/2023/01/04/samhsa-announces-national-survey-drug-use-health-results-detailing-mental-illness-substance-use-levels-2021.html) in the U.S. has a diagnosable mental disorder. - [One in 20](https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/myths-and-facts) adults has a serious mental illness\. - [One in six adults](https://www.hhs.gov/about/news/2023/01/04/samhsa-announces-national-survey-drug-use-health-results-detailing-mental-illness-substance-use-levels-2021.html) has a substance use disorder (including alcohol use disorder). Half of all chronic mental illness [begins by age 14.](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15939837/) Mental illness is treatable. The vast majority of individuals with mental illness continue to function in their daily lives. About Mental Health* \| Mental Health \| Mental Illness \| \|---\|---\| \| Involves effective functioning in daily activities resulting in: Productive activities (such as in work, school or caregiving). Healthy relationships. Ability to adapt to change and cope with adversity. \| Refers collectively to all diagnosable mental disorders — health conditions involving: Significant changes in thinking, emotion and/or behavior. Distress and/or problems functioning in social, work or family activities. \| Mental health is the foundation for emotions, thinking, communication, learning, resilience, hope and self-esteem. Mental health is also key to relationships, personal and emotional well-being and contributing to community or society. Mental health is a component of overall well-being. It can influence and be influenced by physical health. (See [Lifestyle to Support Mental Health](https://www.psychiatry.org/Patients-Families/Lifestyle-to-Support-Mental-Health).) Many people who have a mental illness do not want to talk about it. But mental illness is nothing to be ashamed of! It is a medical condition, just like heart disease or diabetes. And mental health conditions are treatable. We are continually expanding our understanding of how the human brain works, and treatments are available to help people successfully manage mental health conditions. Mental illness does not discriminate; it can affect anyone regardless of your age, gender, geography, income, social status, race, ethnicity, religion/spirituality, sexual orientation, background or other aspect of cultural identity. While mental illness can occur at any age, [three-fourths of all mental illness begins by age 24](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15939837/). Mental illnesses take many forms. Some are mild and only interfere in limited ways with daily life, such as some phobias (abnormal fears). Other mental health conditions are so severe that a person may need care in a hospital. Similar to other medical illnesses, the optimal ways to provide care depend on the illness and the severity of its impact. Diagnosis Mental health conditions are treatable and improvement is possible. Many people with mental health conditions return to full functioning. Some mental illness is preventable. It is not always clear when a problem with mood or thinking has become serious enough to be a mental health concern. Sometimes, for example, a low or depressed mood is normal, such as when a person experiences the loss of a loved one. But if that depressed mood continues to cause distress or gets in the way of normal functioning, the person may benefit from professional care. Family or friends may recognize changes or problems that a person doesn’t see in themselves. Some mental illnesses can be related to or mimic a medical condition. For example, depressive symptoms can relate to a thyroid condition. Therefore, a mental health diagnosis often involves a full health evaluation including a physical exam. This may include blood work and/or neurological tests. People of diverse cultures and backgrounds may express mental health conditions differently. For example, some are more likely to come to a health care professional with concerns about physical symptoms that are caused by a mental health condition. Some cultures view and describe mental health conditions in different ways from most doctors in the U.S. Stigma around mental illness and treatment prevents many people from seeking needed treatment. Treatment and Self-help The diagnosis of a mental disorder is not the same as a need for treatment. Need for treatment takes into consideration how severe the symptoms are, how much symptoms cause distress and affect daily living, the risks and benefits of available treatments and other factors (for example, psychiatric symptoms complicating other illnesses). Mental health treatment is based upon an individualized plan developed collaboratively with a mental health clinician and an individual (and family members if the individual desires). It may include [psychotherapy](https://www.psychiatry.org/Patients-Families/Psychotherapy) (talk therapy), medication or other treatments. Often a combination of therapy and medication is most effective. Complementary and alternative therapies are also increasingly being used. Self-help and support can be very important to an individual’s coping, recovery and well-being. Lifestyle changes, such as good nutrition, exercise, and adequate sleep with good sleep hygiene can support mental health and recovery. A comprehensive treatment plan may include individual actions (for example, [lifestyle change](https://www.psychiatry.org/Patients-Families/Lifestyle-to-Support-Mental-Health)s, support groups or exercise) that enhance recovery and well-being. Primary care clinicians, [psychiatrists](https://www.psychiatry.org/Patients-Families/What-is-Psychiatry) and other mental health clinicians help individuals and families understand mental illnesses and what they can do to control or cope with symptoms in order to improve health, wellness and function. ## Note \* Serious mental illness is a mental, behavioral or emotional disorder (excluding developmental and substance use disorders) resulting in serious functional impairment, which substantially interferes with or limits one or more major life activities. Examples of serious mental illness include major depressive disorder, schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. ## Physician Review Ihuoma Njoku, M.D. July 2025
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