For some time, the week leading up to October 10 has been celebrated as Mental Health Awareness Week. And for just as long, activities have been coordinated internationally during this week to spark conversation about the taboo topics of mental health and mental illness.

Mental illness is any condition which causes serious disorder in a person’s behaviour or thinking. And mental illnesses are more common and varied than most people tend to think.

Self-harm statistics in the UK are one of the highest in Europe at 400 per 100,000.

Mental illness can happen to anyone at anytime.

More than half of all adults with mental health problems were diagnosed in childhood. Less than half were treated appropriately at the time. And the number of young people aged 15-16 with depression nearly doubled between the 1980s and the 2000s.

Mental illnesses can become grave if untreated but with love, support and good care persons with mental illnesses may go on to lead normal, healthy lives.

It is important to remember that persons with mental illness crave our patience and understanding.

Be the difference. Reach out where possible and offer help or point them to someone who can help.