According to the National Institute of Mental Health, one out of every four adults will have a diagnosable mental disorder in their lifetime. Mental illnesses are not caused by the individuals suffering from them and are no different from heart disease, diabetes, or any other chronic illness.

All chronic diseases have behavioral as well as biological components. Most people with psychiatric issues do not seek treatment and resort to unhealthy coping mechanisms (such as alcohol or illegal drugs, isolation, over-eating, and/or violence). It takes courage and strength to realize and accept human and natural limitations, and to seek appropriate care when coping skills go beyond one’s ability to deal with the problem.

Most mental conditions are not life-long or difficult to treat. Many can be treated in a matter of months, rather than years, with the use of short-term psychopharmacology and psychotherapy.

• Emphasizing every individual’s unique strengths, recovery process, and culture
• Improving the ability to function in social, educational, and vocational roles
• Managing and eliminating the debilitating symptoms of a mental illness
• Promoting the ability to live a productive and satisfying life