About mental illness
Mental illness refers to a wide range of conditions that affect how we think, feel, and behave, as well as how we handle stress and relate to others. These conditions can impact our ability to function everyday at work, school, and in relationships.
In England, around 1 in 4 people experience a mental health problem each year. Mental illness can look and feel different for everyone, but some common experiences include:
- persistent sadness or low mood
- loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
- noticeable changes in sleep or appetite
- low energy or constant fatigue
- difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or hopelessness
- thoughts of death or suicide
- struggling to leave the house, going to school, or attending work
- lack of motivation for personal care - such as showering or brushing teeth
It’s completely normal to feel stressed, sad, overwhelmed, or anxious during difficult times, such as after a loss or during exams.
These emotions are part of being human. However, if these feelings last for weeks or months and begin to affect your daily life, it might be a sign of a mental health condition that deserves attention and care.
For help and support, please visit our page on getting professional support.
The provides advice for dealing with life’s difficulties such as loneliness and life changes.
What mental illness is and is not
Mental illness is:
- a health condition that affects the brain, emotions, and behaviour
- something that can happen to anyone regardless of age, background, or lifestyle
- often the result of a combination of biological, psychological, and social factors
- treatable - with the right support, people can and do recover
Mental illness is not:
- a sign of weakness or failure
- just “feeling sad,” “being dramatic,” or “having a bad day”
- something you can simply “snap out of”
- always visible - many people experience symptoms internally