Mental health and mental illness are often used interchangeably. Yet, they’re connected but not the same. To truly care for ourselves and others, we need to understand that distinction.

Mental health is not a diagnosis. It’s not the presence or absence of illness. It’s a living state—a dynamic reflection of how we think, feel and relate to the world around us. That resilience is what allows us to navigate stress without being consumed by it. It’s what lets us form meaningful relationships. It’s what gives us a sense of fulfillment that comes not just from external achievement, but from internal harmony.

Mental health conditions—mental illnesses or disorders—are common. They can affect anyone, regardless of age, background or socioeconomic status. Anxiety disorders and eating disorders are just a couple of examples. Mental health fluctuates. It changes with the seasons, our circumstances and even how well we sleep. Every person lives along that continuum—sometimes balanced, sometimes burdened.

That’s why access to mental health services is so crucial. It helps us diagnose and treat conditions effectively.

Mental health is a vital part of our overall well-being. It encompasses our emotional, psychological and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel and behave. That, in turn, influences our relationships, work and daily life. Just as we prioritize physical health, we need to give equal attention to our mental health to maintain a balanced and fulfilling life.

Mental health conditions are common and can affect anyone. These conditions can range from mild to severe and impact every aspect of a person’s life. Recognizing the importance of mental health and taking proactive steps to nurture it can lead to healthier, more resilient individuals and communities.

Mental illness is more than just a bad day or a stressful season. It’s a diagnosable medical condition that disrupts one’s ability to function in daily life. More than one in five U.S. adults live with a serious mental illness. That’s why understanding and addressing these conditions is so important.

Mental illnesses are marked by patterns of thoughts, emotions and behaviors that are distressing, persistent and often invisible to others. That might look like the heavy fog of major depressive disorder, the spiraling thoughts of panic disorder or the altered realities of schizophrenia. Often, a combination of therapy and medication is most effective in treating these conditions.

These conditions can lead to serious functional impairment, significantly affecting one’s ability to perform major life activities. They’re not just personal struggles—they’re medical conditions. And they deserve professional care and community support without shame or stigma.

People with mental disorders may experience stigma, discrimination and violations of human rights. That can further hinder their ability to seek help and recover.

Mental health conditions are complex and multifaceted. There is no single cause or risk factor. Research suggests that a combination of genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors contribute to the development of these conditions.

Some common risk factors include family history of mental illness, trauma or stress, substance abuse, medical conditions, social isolation, poor relationships and lack of social support. Understanding these risk factors can help individuals take proactive steps to maintain their mental health and seek help when needed.

There are key differences to remember in serious mental illness. Mental health is a general state of emotional and psychological well-being. Mental illness is a diagnosable condition that impacts mood, thinking or behavior. Mental health can vary in severity, while mental illness is often severe and disruptive. Mental health is not formally diagnosed, while mental illness is diagnosed by mental health professionals. Mental health may affect mood and stress levels, while mental illness significantly impairs work, relationships and self-care.

Experiencing a mental health concern is common. But prolonged symptoms that impact daily functioning may warrant professional intervention.

Mental health conditions can manifest in many different ways, and each person’s experience is unique. That’s why it’s so important to recognize the common symptoms—and know when to seek help.

You might feel persistent sadness, or mood swings that leave you (and those around you) wondering what just hit you. Your appetite or sleep patterns might change in ways that leave you feeling drained, or on edge. You might find it hard to concentrate, or make decisions that feel overwhelming. You might withdraw from social activities, or feel like you’re just going through the motions.

These symptoms can be signs of mental health conditions. But they can also be signs of something else. That’s why a mental health professional will typically use a combination of medical history, physical exams, laboratory tests, psychological evaluations and diagnostic criteria to get to the root of what you’re experiencing.

A diagnosis is just the first step. A mental health professional can help you develop a treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and goals. That might include therapy, medications, lifestyle changes or a combination of these. And with the right support, you can manage your mental health conditions and improve your overall quality of life.

Mental health is not something you either have or you don’t. It’s a spectrum. And mental illness is a part of that spectrum. It’s not a sign of weakness, but of wisdom. When you ask for help, you’re taking the first step towards recovery.

That’s why it’s so important to foster an environment of understanding and support. Organizations like SAMHSA play a crucial role in defining and assessing mental health issues. And by speaking with care, listening with depth and working together, we can create a culture where self-care is normalized, professional help is de-stigmatized and support is proactive.

Mental health treatment is highly effective. And there are many options available to suit your needs. You might find that therapy, medications, social support, education on managing your condition, intensive treatment, counseling, group discussions or activities with mental health professionals and other patients are what you need to get back on track.

The most important thing is to work with a mental health professional to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and goals. And to remember that asking for help is not weakness, but wisdom.

Mental health is the ground we walk on. Mental illness may be a storm that moves through it. But both are part of the same landscape—the inner terrain we each must learn to navigate.