What is Mental Illness?

            Mental Illness and those living with mental illness are often misunderstood.  With these misconceptions come stigmas and stereotypes, which are often negative.  These negative beliefs include ideas such as; the individuals are dangerous, they brought the illness upon themselves, or even that they faith is not strong enough. 

            The human body in general is very resilient and the cause for mental illness is not 100% known.  The causes may include age, genetic makeup, and trauma.  When diagnosing or treating individuals suffering from Mental illness the whole person, biopsychosocial, needs to be addressed.  Biologically individuals may have a genetic dysfunction of neurotransmitters (chemicals in the brain).  Psychologically individuals have different personalities and some personalities have increased likelihood of developing a mental illness.  Last but not least, the current stresses in life play a role in the social aspect of a person.

            There are many different mental illnesses.  Most fall into four main groups.  These groups are:  Mood disorders, which include depression and bi-polar Psychotic disorders, which typically present with hallucinations and/or delusions and disorganized thinking.  Schizophrenia falls into this category.  Anxiety disorders include OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder); and Panic disorders, which present with biological symptoms, (e.g. increased heart rate) for no apparent reason.  PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder) fits in this category as well.

            The treatment if mental illness is as individual as the person suffering from the illness.  Typically, individuals with mental illness are treated with medication, and some go to psychotherapy and support groups.  Christian counseling may also be of great benefit.  One of the most important things to remember with mental illnesses, and those living with it, is that no matter what course of treatment they choose, the individuals will always need our prayers, understanding and support.

Report on workshop organized by Christian Counseling Centre:        

  by Karen Kottelenberg