Understanding Mental Health

Mental health conditions affect a person’s thinking, feelings, behavior, or mood and can impact daily life, relationships, work, and school. Mental health conditions are common, treatable, and recovery is possible.

At NAMI Greater Mississippi Valley, we believe no one should face mental health challenges alone. Whether you are seeking support for yourself or someone you care about, we’re glad you’re here.

Mental Health by the Numbers

• 1 in 5 adults experience mental illness each year

• 1 in 6 youth ages 6–17 experience a mental health condition each year

• 50% of all lifetime mental health conditions begin by age 14

• 75% begin by age 24

Mental health conditions can affect anyone, regardless of age, background, or life experience.

What Causes Mental Health Conditions?

There is no single cause of mental illness. Mental health conditions may develop due to a combination of:

• Genetics and family history

• Brain chemistry and biology

• Trauma or stressful life experiences

• Environmental and social factors

• Substance use or physical health conditions

Common Mental Health Conditions

Mental health conditions can look different from person to person. Some commonly recognized conditions include:

• Anxiety Disorders

• ADHD

• Bipolar Disorder

• Borderline Personality Disorder

• Depression and Mood Disorders

• Eating Disorders

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

• Psychosis

• Schizoaffective Disorder

• Schizophrenia

• Substance Use Disorders

Signs Someone May Be Struggling

Warning signs can vary, but some common signs may include:

• Feeling sad, anxious, or withdrawn for long periods of time

• Extreme mood changes

• Difficulty concentrating or completing daily tasks

• Changes in sleep or eating habits

• Increased irritability or anger

• Avoiding friends, family, or activities

• Difficulty coping with stress

• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide

Seeking help early can make a significant difference. Support, education, treatment, and connection can help individuals and families move toward recovery and hope.

Mental Health Myths & Misconceptions

Mental health conditions are medical conditions — not personal failures or signs of weakness. People living with mental health conditions can and do lead meaningful, productive lives with support, treatment, and community.

Seeking help is a sign of strength, and no one should face mental health challenges alone.

Visit NAMI National for more information on specific mental health conditions.

Mental health conditions can affect individuals and their families in many ways. Understanding early signs and knowing where to turn for support can make a meaningful difference.

Possible Signs of a Mental Health Condition
Signs of a mental health condition may include changes in mood, thinking, behavior, or daily functioning.

Examples may include:

• Persistent sadness, worry, or fear

• Noticeable mood changes or irritability

• Withdrawal from friends or activities

• Difficulty concentrating or thinking clearly

• Changes in sleep or appetite

• Increased fatigue or low energy

• Difficulty managing daily responsibilities

• Unusual thoughts or perceptions of reality

• Substance use concerns

When to Seek Help

If these signs are causing concern or interfering with daily life, support is available. Early intervention can make a meaningful difference.

If There Is a Crisis

If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of suicide or immediate danger, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Supporting a Loved One

Family members often experience a wide range of emotions, including confusion, fear, guilt, or frustration. You are not alone, and support is available.

Helpful approaches include:

• Practicing patience and empathy

• Encouraging treatment and support

• Learning about mental health conditions

• Supporting independence when possible

• Using positive communication

Family Support & Education

We offer education programs and support groups designed specifically for family members and caregivers.

• NAMI Family-to-Family (supporting adults)

• NAMI Basics (supporting youth)

• Family support groups and seminars

Support starts with understanding—and you don’t have to navigate this alone.

Overview

Parenting or caring for a child or adolescent with a mental health condition can feel overwhelming at times. Support, education, and early understanding can make a meaningful difference for both youth and families.

Signs in Youth to Be Aware Of

Mental health concerns in youth often show up as changes in mood, behavior, or daily functioning.

Possible signs include:

• Increased anxiety, sadness, or irritability

• Withdrawal from friends or activities

• Changes in school performance or attendance

• Difficulty concentrating or focusing

• Sleep or appetite changes

• Emotional outbursts or mood swings

• Loss of interest in things they once enjoyed

• Talking about hopelessness or feeling overwhelmed

Why Early Support Matters

Early recognition and support can help youth build coping skills, strengthen resilience, and connect with appropriate care and resources.

How Parents & Caregivers Can Help

You don’t need to have all the answers—support starts with connection and understanding.

Helpful approaches include:

• Listening without judgment

• Encouraging open communication

• Seeking professional support when needed

• Learning about mental health conditions

• Supporting routines (sleep, school, structure)

• Encouraging safe independence when appropriate

When to Seek Immediate Help

If a young person is talking about self-harm, suicide, or is in immediate danger, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Support for Families

Caring for a young person experiencing mental health challenges can be emotionally difficult. Support is available for caregivers and families.

We offer:

• Family support groups

• Educational programs for caregivers

• Peer connection opportunities

Programs for Families of Youth

NAMI Basics is designed specifically for parents and caregivers of children and adolescents living with mental health conditions.

You are not alone—support, education, and community are here to help you and your family.

The college years can be a time of transition, growth, and new challenges. It’s also a common time for mental health conditions to first appear or become more noticeable.

Understanding Mental Health in College Students

Mental health conditions can emerge during late adolescence and early adulthood, often during major life transitions such as starting college.

Common experiences may include:

• Increased stress or anxiety

• Difficulty adjusting to new environments

• Changes in mood, sleep, or motivation

• Feeling overwhelmed or isolated

When to Be Concerned

If changes in mood, behavior, or functioning persist or worsen, it may be helpful to seek support.

How to Ask for Help

Reaching out early can make a meaningful difference.

You might say:

• “I haven’t been feeling like myself lately. Can we talk?”

• “I’m feeling overwhelmed and could use support.”

• “Can you help me find someone to talk to?”

Finding Support

Support is available through friends, family, campus counseling centers, professors, coaches, and community organizations.

In a Crisis

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or experiencing thoughts of suicide, call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Healthy Coping Strategies

Supporting your mental health during college can include small daily habits.

• Maintaining sleep and routine

• Staying connected with supportive people

• Using campus resources

• Managing stress with healthy coping strategies

• Avoiding harmful substance use when possible

Support is Available

You are not alone—help and support are available throughout your college journey.

• Get Help

• Support Groups

• NAMI on Campus

• 988 Crisis Support

Mental health conditions and substance use can sometimes occur together. When this happens, each can affect the other, making support more complex—but recovery is possible.

Understanding Co-Occurring Conditions

Some individuals may use alcohol or drugs to cope with mental health symptoms such as anxiety, depression, trauma, or stress. Over time, this can increase challenges for both conditions.

Common Signs

Substance use and mental health concerns can show up in different ways.

These may include:

• Changes in mood or behavior

• Withdrawal from friends or activities

• Difficulty functioning at school, work, or home

• Increased use of substances to cope

• Intense stress, anxiety, or depression

• Risky or impulsive behaviors

Why Integrated Support Matters

When mental health and substance use are both present, treating both together is often the most effective approach.

Getting Help

Support is available, and you do not have to navigate this alone.

Helpful resources may include:

• Mental health professionals

• Substance use treatment providers

• Support groups

• Community-based services

Support Groups

Peer support can be an important part of recovery and healing.

Examples include:

• Recovery support groups

• Mental health peer groups

• Community-based recovery programs

In a Crisis

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or experiencing thoughts of suicide, call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Where to Start

If you’re unsure where to begin, reaching out to a trusted professional or support organization is a good first step.

• Get Help

• Support Groups

• 988 Crisis Support

We are grateful for the service of all veterans, active-duty personnel, and military families. Mental health challenges can affect anyone, and support is available.

Click here to learn more about NAMI Homefront.

Military Mental Health

Military service can involve unique stressors that may impact mental health, including trauma exposure, deployment, transition to civilian life, and high operational demands.

Common experiences may include:

• Anxiety or depression

• Post-traumatic stress (PTSD)

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)

• Substance use challenges

• Mood and stress-related conditions

Understanding Trauma and PTSD

Traumatic experiences—such as combat exposure, accidents, or other high-stress events—can contribute to post-traumatic stress symptoms.

These may include:

• Difficulty sleeping

• Irritability or anger

• Heightened alertness or startle response

• Nightmares or intrusive thoughts

• Difficulty concentrating

These symptoms are treatable, and support is available.

Getting Help is a Strength

Seeking support is a positive step and can help improve overall well-being and functioning.

Support may include:

• Medical providers

• Behavioral health professionals

• Military and community-based resources

Military & Veteran Resources

Specialized support is available for service members, veterans, and families.

Resources include:

• Military support services

• Veteran support programs

• Community mental health providers

NAMI Support for Military Families

NAMI offers education and support programs designed for military families navigating mental health challenges.

This includes peer-led education and family support opportunities.

In a Crisis

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or experiencing thoughts of suicide, call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Veterans can also connect with the Veterans Crisis Line by calling or texting 988 and pressing 1.

You Are Not Alone

Support, understanding, and recovery are possible at every stage of military and post-service life.

We recognize and affirm the experiences of LGBTQ+ individuals and their families. Everyone deserves access to mental health support in a safe, respectful, and welcoming environment.

You are not alone—support, education, and connection are here for you.

Mental Health & LGBTQ+ Experiences

LGBTQ+ individuals may face unique stressors that can impact mental health, including discrimination, rejection, stigma, or lack of support.

These experiences can contribute to:

• Anxiety or depression

• Stress and trauma responses

• Substance use challenges

• Feelings of isolation

Family, Identity & Support

Coming out and expressing identity can be a deeply personal experience. Supportive relationships and environments can make a meaningful difference in mental health and well-being.

Some individuals may experience:

• Family rejection or strained relationships

• Challenges at school, work, or in faith communities

• Difficulty finding safe or affirming support

Barriers to Support

Some LGBTQ+ individuals face additional barriers when seeking mental health care or community support, including stigma or lack of affirming services.

Resilience & Strength

Despite challenges, LGBTQ+ communities demonstrate strong resilience, identity, and connection. Supportive environments and affirming care can strengthen well-being and recovery.

Getting Support

Mental health support is available, and finding affirming care can be an important step.

Support options may include:

• Peer support groups

• Mental health professionals

• Community-based organizations

• Crisis and support lines

In a Crisis

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger or experiencing thoughts of suicide, call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

You Belong Here

Everyone deserves support, understanding, and dignity. You are welcome here.