As we know, everyone can feel down or up tight at times. However, for people with a mental health problem this will happen more often, last for longer periods, be difficult to cope with and cause great distress. The person can experience difficulties in the way that they think, feel or behave. This can affect relationships, work, and quality of life. Having a mental health problem can be difficult, not only for the person concerned, but also for family and friends.
Despite the fact that most people will have some personal experience of mental ill health it remains poorly understood by many. Because of this, many people face prejudice and discrimination in their everyday lives. However, unlike the images often portraid in books, on television and in films, most people can lead productive and fulfilling lives with appropriate treatment and support. In fact, between 70% and 80% of people who experience mental health problems will go on to recover. It s important to remember that having a mental health problem is not someone's fault, it is not a sign of weakness, and it is not something to be ashamed of.
In the past 25 years, mental health research has made great strides in the diagnosis and successful treatment of many mental health problems. Common types of mental health problems include depression, anxiety or phobias. Less common mental health problems include bi-polar disorder (also called manic depression) and schizophrenia. Treatment can range from self-help; such as talking to family and fiends, reading a book; which helps you to understand and deal with problems, to medication and talking therapies.