One of the goals at ADAMH is to provide information to Franklin County citizens about issues like mental illness and substance abuse, in an effort to reduce the stigma or misconceptions associated with behavioral health care issues. It is always great to learn more about mental illness, treatment, and recovery.
Few may know mental illness is a common but treatable, health condition, similar to heart disease and diabetes. Mental illness affects the brain and is best treated by a healthcare professional. Examples include: stress, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia.
The approach to treatment for mental illness differs from person to person, with many different types of treatment available. Treatment needs to be individualized to be most effective. Some examples include: counseling, medication, outpatient or in-patient treatment.
Of the many who receive treatment for their mental illness most can and will recover. Recovery means different things to different people. Recovery can mean a person with a mental health or substance abuse problem is living a healthy, productive life, has a job, is raising and caring for a family, lives independently or volunteers in the community.
Contrary to many beliefs, mental illness can happen to anyone. It can be a friend, neighbor, family member, or spouse. The truth is one and four people will be affected by a mental illness or substance abuse issue in their lifetime. For this reason, it is important to know the facts.
With proper treatment, most children and adults can recover and go on to lead healthy, productive lives.
Do not let stigma prevent you from getting the care you or a family member needs. Seek the advice of a healthcare professional. For more information, visit the ADAMH website at www.adamhfranklin.org.
Sincerely,
David Royer
CEO
ADAMH Board of Franklin County
