Good mental health and good physical health go hand-in-hand. Contacting our primary care physician comes naturally to us when we have a problem with our physical health like a cold, virus, or broken bone. However, reaching out for services to help with mental health problems, like depression or anxiety, may not come as easily.
Mental Health Mississippi was developed to make that process easier and to serve as a hub of information for all mental health resources available in our state. We encourage you to browse the site to find services available in your area, including those for crisis situations.
Online screening is one of the easiest ways to determine whether you are experiencing symptoms of a mental health condition. Mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, are real, common and treatable. And recovery is possible. Click here to take an anonymous mental health screening.
If your organization would like to be a part of Mental Health Mississippi’s website, submit a request here.
What is a Mental Illness?
A mental illness is a condition that affects a person’s thinking, feelings, or mood. These conditions could affect a person’s ability to relate to others and function each day. Each person’s story is different, but recovery from mental illnesses is possible! People who have been diagnosed with a mental illness go on to lead meaningful lives through their work, education, social roles and in their families, especially when they’ve sought treatment.
Mental health problems aren’t the result of one event. A person’s genetics, life experiences, or lifestyle can influence mental health. Biochemical processes and brain structure may play a role in whether a person will develop a mental health problem, as do stressful or traumatic life events.
Mental illnesses are more common than you might think
One in five people will experience a mental illness like depression or anxiety at some point in their life. Nearly 1 in 25, an estimated 10 million American adults, lives with a serious mental illness like schizophrenia or bi-polar disorder. Mental illnesses can happen to anyone! No one is exempt regardless of their age, race, income, or their education.
Mental illnesses are not likely to get better on their own, but they are treatable. One-half of all chronic mental illnesses begin by the age of 14, and three-quarters begin by the age of 24. Mental health issues are common, but treatment can help.
Nearly 60% of adults with a mental illness didn’t receive mental health services in the previous year.
Nearly 50% of youth age 8-15 didn’t receive mental health services in the previous year.
Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S. Of those people who die by suicide, 90% have an underlying mental illness.
Just like with any other health condition, early identification and treatment play an important role in the success of someone diagnosed with a mental illness.
Eating healthy foods, exercising, getting enough sleep, and practicing self-care can help protect your health and wellness- both physically and mentally. Don’t be afraid to seek help if you are experiencing a mental health problem
