Friday #MentalHealth #MythBuster: I Can’t Work If I Have Mental Illness

#Many people, with all forms of mental illness, work full time and part time jobs

#People with mental illness can and do complete school, including higher education

#People who suffer from mental illness, even mildly, need to have supports around them from friends to family and community members

#7.7 million people in America have chronic mental illness. About 3.5 million of them go untreated, but could benefit from some form of mental health services*

#People with mental illness can and do become successful in life, work and family but early intervention and continual maintenance is critical for wellness

#If you need to work, but you begin to feel overwhelmed doing so, look into what services your employer offers including the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), a free service

#Your privacy is important and you cannot be fired for having a mental health diagnosis. It’s against the law!

#If you suffer from mental illness and want to continue working, yet find it challenging, consult your doctor or a mental health provider for a professional recommendation

#Informing your loved one(s) and family that your symptoms may be worsening is very important to overall wellbeing and safety


*(www.treatmentadvocacycenter.org)

Asha, Licensed Mental Health Specialist