Gov't Survey

"WASHINGTON – The government says 1 in 5 American adults suffered from mental illness during the past year. Most didn't receive treatment.
A survey being released Thursday by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration found that 45 million experienced some form of mental illness in 2009, from major depression to more serious problems such as suicide attempts. Fewer than 4 in 10 received treatment for their mental health condition.
The survey found a strong link between mental health problems and alcoholism and drug abuse. Mental illness was also more likely among the unemployed, young adults and women. Overall, more than 8 million had serious thoughts of suicide, and 1 million tried to carry them out."


I feel so thankful that I was finally able to understand what was happening to me and get the medical help that I needed.  I am sad that so many people are suffering and go untreated.  The estimated percentages of people who have what they call co-occurring diagnosis (mental illness and substance abuse) are about 50%.  I am thankful to be in the percentage of those who have not turned to drugs and alcohol to self medicate, although I do personally know people that have.  I have to say that I understand why they turn to those substances to try and cope with the pain of mental illness, although all it does is compound the problems to an extreme degree.  I know that my knowledge of the gospel of Jesus Christ has been a foundation of hope and faith for me and has helped me have a deeper understanding of the trials that each one of us will experience.  If we turn to our Savior, all things can be for our good through his atoning sacrifice.  We need to have faith that this is true.  I can look back and see how this has come to pass in my own life and in the lives of my family.  We have learned from each experience and are able to use it to bless the lives of others through our compassion and service.  We are able to validate to others that what they are experiencing is real, that they are not crazy, and we can try to give them hope that things will get better.  My heart goes out to everyone who suffers with mental illness. It is a very difficult life for us and for those who love us.  Please have compassion and love for those who suffer.  We need your understanding and support.