They result in stigma, isolation and discrimination. They are illnesses just like any other - heart disease, diabetes, asthma. Yet the traditions of flowers, sympathy and support provided to those with a physical illness are denied to those with mental illness. When treated appropriately and early, it is possible for many people to recover fully from most mental illnesses. For other people, mental illness is like many physical illnesses which require on-going treatment such as diabetes, asthma and heart disease, but which can be managed so that the individual can participate in every day life.
Mental illness is often transient and can come and go in people's lives.
Some people have only one episode and will recover completely. For others, it recurs throughout their lives and requires on-going treatment. A mental health problem or illness is not an insurmountable barrier. While a number of people do become disabled as a result of a chronic mental illness, many people who experience even major mental illnesses manage to live full and productive lives. They are able to work and participate in family and social life, while continuing to receive treatment and medication for their illness.