When we look at the very political nature of our land, one thing is for certain -- mental illness afflicts in a very bi-partisan manner. It doesn’t discriminate between republicans or democrats, rich or poor, black or white, or any other demographic indicator.

Affecting one out of every five Americans, mental illness takes on many forms, including: bi-polar disorder; schizophrenia; depression; anxiety disorder; and personality disorders. Some illnesses are short lived, while others can grow more severe and persistent through time.

Science tells us that mental illness is a medical illness not very different from being ill with diabetes or heart disease. It is important to seek treatment because the consequences of ignoring mental illness can be just as detrimental to life as ignoring a chronic physical condition.

Also very important is for those suffering from mental illness to know that their condition is in no way the result of personal weakness, character deficiency, or some punishment visited upon them or their families. It is brought about by a multitude of factors in life.

If you or someone you love has a mental illness, it can mean a lifetime of stress, health issues and specialized care. It can profoundly disrupt a person’s thinking, feeling, mood, or ability to relate to others.

Left untreated, the potential consequences of mental illness are significant, and they include unnecessary disability, unemployment, substance abuse, homelessness, incarceration, and suicide.

In our very own communities, we see an average of about 21 reported suicides per year combined in Clark and Madison Counties. While these are simply statistics to some people, to us they are real lives that have been lost by our own neighbors and families.

If mental illness affects you or your family, remember that you are not alone in your struggles. You can find much needed support, understanding, education and treatment at Mental Health Services for Clark and Madison Counties (MHS). Also available for those in need is the local and National Alliance for the Mentally Ill (NAMI). NAMI is dedicated to improving the lives of persons living with serious mental illness, and is an important source of support and education. Both organizations offer professional and caring staff dedicated to the real-life science of healing.

Treatment options exist and treatment works. Reach out to someone in need of help, and honor their individual dignity while giving them encouragement to seek the assistance they need.