They interfere with emotion, thought processes, behavior and perception. A mental illness causes variable amounts of stress and suffering to the person involved. People should seek help to overcome a mental illness just as they do for any other illness of the body. Mental illness is not characterized by retardation or lower intellectual capacity, nor is it explained by an individual not living up to society's expectations. The frequency and severity of mental illnesses vary from person to person.
Some psychotic episodes are short-lived and occur irregularly.
Other people may have a recurring, lifelong battle. With support and medication, most people with mental illness can lead rewarding lives. Mental illness can be broadly classified as psychosis or other Mental Health conditions or other diagnosis. There is not always a clear distinction between them.