Home About Mental Illnesses

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FACING THE FACTS:

*  One out of five American families has a relative who has a mental illness.

*  Mental illness typically strikes young people in their most productive years, 16-25.

*  Three million children and adolescents suffer from these illnesses.

*  Families from all walks of life are affected regardless of age, race, income, religion or education.

*  Mental illness devastates family members and people with mental illness.  Family life is disrupted.

*  Each year, mental illnesses cost billions of dollars in care and lost earning.

SERIOUS MENTAL ILLNESSES:

*  Are brain diseases showing neurological, structural and biochemical abnormalities with genetic, and perhaps viral components not as yet understood.

*  Include schizophrenia, depressive illnesses, anxiety disorders, and other mental disorders.

*  Can and do improve iwth proper treatment, support systems and rehabilitation.

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