Every year, nearly 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. experiences some form of mental illness. However, a lot of people avoid seeking treatment because they are worried about being judged or discriminated against.

It doesn't have to be that way. Mental illness is a health condition.

Just like cancer, diabetes, or arthritis, a mental illness can significantly affect the quality of a person's life. A mental illness can affect mood, thinking and behavior.

A person may develop a mental illness due to trauma, stress, substance use, or because of a genetic or biological reason. Sometimes the reason is unknown.

All mental illnesses can be treated and/or managed. See professional help.