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Frequently Asked Questions about Mental Health

Question: Is mental illness really an illness?

Answer:  Yes. The brain is an organ that is susceptible to illness. Chemicals in the brain regulate how people think, feel and act. Brain function can become affected if these chemicals are out of balance or disrupted, contributing to mental illness. Thus, mental illness is a real bodily illness, not just something “in your head.”

Question:  Does the prevalence of mental health problems differ among different racial or ethnic groups? 

Answer:  No. The prevalence of mental health problems is similar for all racial and ethnic groups. However, members of racial or ethnic minority groups may experience greater disability from mental health problems because of difficulties in accessing culturally sensitive, good quality care. 

Question:  Is it true that mental illness can’t be cured?

Answer:  This is a complex question. In many cases, mental illness cannot be “cured” in the sense that it will go away and never return.  Most often, the symptoms of mental illness can be eliminated or reduced and managed through treatment with medication, therapy or a combination of both.  For example, 80 to 90% of people with depression or anxiety can be helped when properly assessed and treated, though it is still possible that the illness will return at a future time.

Question:  Are people with mental health problems likely to be dangerous?

Answer:  No. Research shows that people with mental health problems do not commit significantly more violent acts than do people in the general population. Research does indicate, however, that substance abuse is frequently involved in violent acts committed by individuals with or without other mental health problems.

Question:  If someone has a mental health problem, should they abandon their hopes for a fulfilling career?

Answer:  No. Although mental health problems can negatively affect individuals in a significant manner, with treatment and appropriate work accommodations, even people diagnosed with a serious mental illness have succeeded famously.

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