We are all impacted by mental illness. One in four adults and one in five children directly experience mental illness every year.

Whether you know someone who has an illness – a spouse, parent, child, extended family member, coworker or neighbor – or you have an illness yourself, mental illness affects every person.

No longer can we be ashamed or whisper about it. It is time to start talking about it openly so individuals can seek appropriate treatment without embarrassment or stigma.

Mental Illness Awareness Week is Oct. 5-11. This week is an opportune time to learn about the symptoms of mental illness, including major depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorder, psychotic disorders and other conditions. It is also a great time to learn about the resources right here in our community, including treatment for those with an illness and support for their loved ones.

Just like any other illness, such as heart, lung or liver disease, early identification and treatment for mental illness can make a difference. Information on symptoms and treatment is available from the National Alliance on Mental Illness at www.nami.org or its HelpLine at 1-800-950-6264.

Help break the barriers during this week and show your support for mental illness awareness by wearing green. Share photos of you “going green” using #MIAW on Twitter or Facebook. Your efforts will help encourage others to take the first step on their journey to wellness.

Andrea Krebs

Auburn

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