Psychiatric or mental illnesses are characterized by changes in thinking, mood or behavior that is accompanied by significant distress or impaired functioning. Mental illnesses may be triggered by a variety of factors to include environmental stressors, illness, and chemical imbalances. However, regardless to the trigger all mental functions are mediated by the brain. The brain, an organ like the liver, kidney, or heart, can be influenced by a variety of factors that lead to impairments in behavior and psychiatric functioning. Mental illnesses are treatable, however severe and persistent mental illnesses like schizophrenia, are long lasting and can seriously impede all aspects of an individuals life. Even with the use of psychotropic medications, individuals living with a severe and persistent mental illness may never really be free of symptoms.

Ignoring a symptom does not necessarily mean that the problem will go away, in fact the problem will many times manifest into other areas of our lives. Our thoughts, behaviors and feelings are connected. If we are experiencing feelings of sadness, anger, or fear, sooner or latter those feelings will spill over into our behavior and ultimately into our speech. For example, when we are feeling emotionally drained or hurt on the inside, we will begin to speak and think words that are negative and that lead to self-destructive behaviors like substance use, physical abuse and violence.  Ignoring symptoms associated with a severe mental illness can lead to misunderstanding, loss of hope and wasted potential. Everyone has a God given purpose for living, having a mental illness does not negate that fact, there is always hope.   (IGBATTMHO)