Mental illness can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, race, or income. Each year, roughly one in four Americans will be affected by some form of mental illness. When treated, rates of recovery are high. However, fewer than half of those with diagnosable mental illnesses will seek treatment.

Many reasons exist for not seeking treatment:

1. Mental illness may not be recognized in the first place.

2. There may be an incorrect belief that the illness cannot be treated.

3. The negative label or stigma linked to mental illness may prevent people from seeking treatment.

Stigma exists when people do not fully understand mental illness and those affected by it. The results of stigma can be profound. In those with mental illness, stigma can result in social isolation. It can result in difficulty loca
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