Mental illness is not a single disease but a broad classification for many mental health problems. A mental health problem might also be described as a mental disorder, poor mental health, psychiatric illness, nervous breakdown and burnout.
Mental illness causes major changes in a person’s thinking, emotional state and behaviour. It disrupts a person’s ability to work and carry on their usual personal relationships. Some types of mental illness are mood disorders (such as major depression and bipolar disorder), anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, substance use disorders and eating disorders.
At least one in three Canadians will experience a mental health problem at some point in their life.
Did you know? … (Report on Mental Illnesses in Canada, 2002)
- Mental illnesses affect people of all ages, educational and income levels and cultures
- The stigma attached to mental illnesses presents a serious barrier to diagnosis and treatment, and acceptance in the community
- Mental health problems often occur in combination. For example, it is not unusual for a person who is depressed to misuse alcohol or drugs
- Mental health problems are a common reason for people consulting their physician
- Over half of people who have a mental illness will not seek treatment
Learn more about mental illness and addictions.
Mental Health First Aid Canada teaches first aid skills to help someone who is developing mental health problems or is experiencing a mental health crisis.