b'ChapterMyths, Misunderstandings and Facts Can anyone develop a mental illness?Yes. As many as one in five Australians may develop a mental illness at some stage in their lives. Everyone is vulnerable to mental health problems. Many people feel more comfortable with the notion of having a nervous breakdown rather than a mental illness. However, it is important to talk openly about mental illness, as this reduces the stigma and helps people to seek early treatment.Are people with mental illness usually dangerous?No. This false perception underlies some of the most damaging stereotypes. People with a mental illness are seldom dangerous. Even people with the most severe mental illness are rarely dangerous when receiving appropriate treatment and support.Should people with a mental illness be isolated from the community?No. Most people with a mental illness recover quickly and do not require hospital care. Othersmay have short admissions to hospital for treatment. Improvements in treatment over recent decades mean that most people live comfortably within in their communities, and there is no need for the confinement and isolation that was commonly used in the past.Is stigma one of the biggest problems for people with mental illness?Yes. One of the biggest obstacles for people recovering from mental illness is confronting the negative attitudes of other people. These often mean that people with mental illness face isolation and discrimination just for having an illness. Positive and hopeful attitudes of family, friends, service providers, employers, and other members of the community toward people with mental illness are critical to ensuring quality of life for people with mental illness and supporting recovery.What can be done about the stigma of mental illness?Consider mental illnesses like any other illness or health condition and bring them into the open. Talk about mental illness openly and honestly with everyone you meet - it is surprising howmany people are affected by mental illness, particularly the highly prevalent disorders ofdepression and anxiety. Help educate the community to overcome negative stereotypes based on misconceptions. Promote mental health and healthy attitudes through childhood and adult life. Support the development of resilience - learn ways to deal with stress in relationships,situations, and events. Assist friends and family with a mental illness to obtain care and treatment as early as possible.258 Mental Illness'