There is no dating class in high school, let alone dating someone who has a mental health issue. Nonetheless, fear does not have to damage your relationship or strain it to the point that it is difficult to enjoy it. If you are considering dating someone who has a mental health condition, consider these facts. People with mental illnesses are more likely than others to experience discrimination in employment, housing, credit and other areas. If you are an employer, employee or consumer; please read our action items on Mental Health Awareness for more information. It is important to remember that people with mental illnesses cannot control their symptoms, nor do they make conscious decisions about whether or not to take their medications. If you are dating or living with someone who has a mental illness, try not to take this fact lightly or without giving it much thought. Dating someone who has a mental health condition is not only possible, but also healthy. If you decide to go forward with this arrangement, work with your partner to ensure they know what is expected of them and help them get the support they need. People with mental illnesses are not a threat to others, but they can be threats to themselves.