SPECIAL TO THE JOURNAL

Mental illnesses are medical illnesses. Serious mental illnesses are more common than cancer, diabetes and heart disease and are the number one reason for hospital admissions nationwide.

 

One in five young people aged 13 to 18 experience mental illness. In fact, one-half of all mental illness begins by the age of 14–three-quarters by age 24. Unfortunately, there are long delays–sometimes decades–between the first appearance of symptoms and when people get help. Less than one-half of children with a diagnosed illness receive treatment.

 

To help bring attention to Alabamians suffering with mental illnesses, and to bring attention to the proven treatments that work to change their lives, Beacon Children’s Hospital is observing Mental Illness Awareness Week.  Mental Illness Awareness Week (MIAW) is Oct. 6-12, 2013 and is an opportunity to learn more about serious mental illnesses such as major depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, severe anxiety disorders and post-traumatic stress disorders, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).

 

“Treating the patient also means educating the public,” said Beatrice McLean, Administrator at Beacon Children’s Hospital.   “We want people to understand mental illness and join in conversations throughout our community. The more people know, the better they can help themselves or help their loved ones get the support they need.  Serious mental illnesses affect millions of Americans annually.  The good news is that treatment works and recovery is possible.”

 

For more information, please contact Beacon Children’s Hospital at 334.335.5040.  Please don’t hesitate to call.  We are here 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

 

Additionally, information about specific illnesses, diagnosis & treatment options is available at www.nami.org.