Mental illness is no longer just a furtive diagnosis. It's highly prevalent in our country, and it REALLY DOES MATTER.
With millions suffering on a daily basis, it's important to both understand the complexities and raise awareness.
Terms like “serious mental illness,” “mental illness,” or “mental health disorders” may all seem like they’re referring to the same thing, but in fact refer to specific diagnostic groups.
20% of adults in the United States suffer from mental illness
17% of young adults (6-17 years old) suffer from a mental health disorder
50% of all lifetime mental illnesses begin by age 14; 75% by age 24.
Suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death among people aged 10-34 in the United States.
Mental health really does matter. Living with psychological distress leads to even further risks:
People with depression have at least a 40% higher risk of developing cardiovascular and metabolic diseases than the general population. People with serious mental illness are nearly twice as likely to develop these conditions.
More than 30% of U.S. adults with mental illness also experience a substance use disorder.
Unemployment is higher among U.S. adults who have mental illness (6.4% vs. 5.1%).
High school students with significant symptoms of depression are more than twice as likely to drop out from school as compared to peers.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD*) and mental health crises or struggles are highly correlated, particularly among the veteran community.
*PTSD is a mental health condition that's triggered by a terrifying event — either experiencing it or witnessing it. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, and severe anxiety, as well as uncontrollable thoughts about the event.
After coping with her own personal experience of PTSD and witnessing the devastating effects of mental illness, Kim Kuhle recognized the importance of supporting those who suffer, and she was inspired to found and manage a living community for veterans who have all been exposed to the risks of battling mental illness and distress.
Here's a look back as she discusses her experience with FOX21 News in Colorado Springs.
Kim’s goal, and that of Veterans Victory, is to create space for those who have served together and too often suffered together.
Veterans Victory is a place where they grow, heal, learn, and dream... a place they can create something of their own, in community with other veterans.
Veterans Victory Small Business Center is actively seeking mental health professionals to join our community coming soon to southeastern Colorado Springs.
For more information, contact Kim Kuhle 402-728-8722 or Kim.Kuhle@VVSBC.com.
Sources: NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) https://www.nami.org/mhstats
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