Guest Author - Lisa Angelettie M.S.W.

The term "mental health" is one that sends some people running for cover. People want to always present the illusion of total control at all times; But statistics over the years have shown us a different reality. One out of ten people will suffer from some sort of mental health problem over the course of their lives.

Imagine your graduating class? Or the teacher staff at your children's school. Or the White House Staff. 1 out of 10 of them could be dealing with something right now. Does that scare you? It shouldn't.

People suffering from a mental health disorder have long been given a stigma. They are called crazy. Or nuts. Now, think about your local news. When someone commits an inexplicable act of violence, haven't you said or thought, "Oh, he must be crazy. Or insane. Only a crazy person would do something like that!"

The truth is that we are generalizing the whole spectrum of mental health disorders and doing ourselves a disservice when we think like this. People with mental health issues are normal people.

A woman who lives across the street from you, and works at a local bank, may suffer from bipolar disorder (which is much like manic depression) -- but with appropriate treatment she lives normally.

Reality Check...
1. People do not actively seek treatment for many mental health issues because of the stigma attached to having a problem, getting counseling, or taking medication. Encourage people you know to seek treatment. Or seek treatment for yourself. Don't let public perception hinder your own growth.

2. People do not know enough about mental health disorders. Read your paper. Go on the internet. Ask your doctor questions. Get mental health savvy. It is almost guaranteed that you will need that information for yourself or for a loved one day.

3. Mental health problems can be event triggered. If your mother dies, you are expected to be very sad, but if you find that you are unable to crawl out from under the deep sadness after a prolonged period of time - it is possible that you are suffering from clinical depression that was triggered by a traumatic event.

4. Seeking treatment is not a sign of weakness. It is almost ridiculous to not seek the help you need, because you believe it is a sign of weakness on your part. A diabetic takes their insulin, much like A bipolar patient may need their lithium. A physical problem may require a medical and/or psychotheraputic solution. Talking to your best friend about it from time to time is not a medical solution.

5. Recent studies have shown that internet therapy can be very successful for a particular type of patient--mostly depressed ones. If you rather not face the confrontation of a face to face meeting with a clinician, then this may be the way to go.


Lisa Angelettie M.S.W. is a psychotherapist and author on a variety of mind-body-money-relationship issues for women. You can also visit her at http://www.girlshrink.com