THIS IS NOT ANOTHER POLAR BEAR STORY

Much like the iceberg no one can see the size of the threat. But by the time Canadians (and highly probable for most countries) reach 40 years of age, 1 in 2 have – or have had – a mental illness. I have been swimming around it for most of my adult life. This is meant to help you keep your head above water, be aware and show understanding for those at home or work. Especially concerning is the threat of dangerous opiates in America and Canada today.

The terms ‘mental illness’ and ‘addiction’ refer to a wide range of disorders that affect mood, thinking and behavior. Examples include depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, as well as substance use disorders and problem gambling. Mental illness and addictions can be associated with distress and/or impairment of functioning. Symptoms vary from mild to severe. 

Key Facts

• In any given year, 1 in 5 Canadians experiences a mental health or addiction problem.
• 70% of mental health problems have their onset during childhood or adolescence.
• Young people aged 15 to 24 are more likely to experience mental illness and/or substance use disorders than any other age group.
• 34% of Ontario high-school students indicate a moderate-to-serious level of psychological distress (symptoms of anxiety and depression). 14% indicate a serious level of psychological distress.
• Men have higher rates of addiction than women, while women have higher rates of mood and anxiety disorders.
• Mental and physical health are linked. People with a long-term medical condition such as chronic pain are much more likely to also experience mood disorders. Conversely, people with a mood disorder are at much higher risk of developing a long-term medical condition.
• People with a mental illness are twice as likely to have a substance use problem compared to the general population. At least 20% of people with a mental illness have a co-occurring substance use problem.
• www.camh.ca