About Mental Illness

Did you know that one in five Canadians will experience a mental illness in their lifetime?  Or that the majority of mental illnesses strike in the tender stages of adolescence and early adulthood?  Do you think it can’t happen to you?

In Lambton County alone, more than 26 000 of your friends, neighbours, coworkers, and loved ones will be impacted by mental illness at some point in their lives. The odds are just as high that you will develop a mental illness yourself.

Mental illness is not a sign of weakness, low intelligence, or flawed character.  Mental illnesses such as Depression, Bipolar Disorder, and Schizophrenia are disorders of the brain – and they are treatable!  In fact, mental illness is no different than any other illness, such as heart disease, or diabetes.  Unfortunately, the myths and stigma unique to mental illness prevent many of those who need it from ever seeking help.       

For more information on the specific types of mental illness, please go to:

www.cmha.ca and click on “Understanding Mental Illness”

www.ontario.cmha.ca and click on “About Mental Illness”.