Millions of Americans currently live with a mental illness, and it is estimated that 1 in 5 people will be affected by one in their lifetime. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, during which the National Alliance on Mental Illness, Mental Health America and many other organizations aim to raise awareness of, and aid people with mental illness. By fighting stigma, educating the public, and advocating for policies, these associations work to inspire millions of people worldwide and support those in need.    

A host of factors are involved in the development of mental health disorders, ranging from environmental and biophysical to those of a more psychological nature, such as traumatic life experiences. However, certain risk and protective factors have been identified to help prevent and treat at-risk individuals. Mental health issues stem from more than one risk factor, and often one protective factor is not enough to stop the development of disorders. However, many individuals do not develop mental illnesses even under the stress of multiple risk factors – resiliency is a key determinant in mental health conditions. It is important to remember that all individuals experience negative emotions such as pain, stress, and anger in different ways and that there is no single cause of mental illness.   Continue reading →