Mental illness is a brain-based conditions that affect thinking, emotions, and behaviours. Moreover, mental illness is a disease that causes mild to severe disturbances in thought or behaviour, resulting in the inability to cope with life’s normal routines and demands. 

Furthermore, mental illnesses are health conditions involving significant changes in emotion, thinking, or behaviour, often associated with distress and problems functioning in social, work, or family activities. Also, mental illness is the abnormal behaviour, feeling or thinking that makes a person unable to work, get along with other people and enjoy life. (American Psychiatric Association [ APA], 2022; Ministry of Health and Social Services [MOHSS], 2005). 

There are more than 200 classified forms of mental illness. Some of the more common disorders are depression, bipolar disorder, major neurocognitive disorder, schizophrenia and anxiety disorders. Symptoms may include changes in mood, personality, personal habits and social withdrawal. Thus, mental health problems may be related to excessive stress due to a particular situation or series of events. 

As with HIV, cancer, diabetes and heart disease, mental illness is often physical as well as emotional and psychological. Mental illness may be caused by a reaction to an environmental stress, genetic factors, biochemical imbalances, or a combination of these. 

With proper care and treatment, many individuals learn to cope or recover from a mental illness or emotional disorder (APA,2022; WHO,2025). 

It is vital to note that mental illness can manifest in a variety of ways, depending on the condition. Some signs may be subtle, while others can be more overt. Being able to spot the early indicators can help families intervene early and seek appropriate help. Some common signs to watch for include: confused thinking, prolonged depression (sadness or irritability), feelings of extreme highs and lows, excessive fears, worries and anxieties, social withdrawal, dramatic changes in eating or sleeping habits, strong feelings of anger, strange thoughts (delusions), seeing or hearing things that aren’t there (hallucinations), growing inability to cope with daily activities and suicidal thoughts (APA, 2022). 

Supporting a loved one with mental illness is emotionally draining but vital. Educate yourself about their condition through books, articles, support groups, and professionals to better support them. Encourage professional help by offering to accompany them to appointments and respecting their autonomy. 

Set healthy boundaries to prevent burnout and know when to step back as they work through challenges. 

Prioritise self-care by engaging in enjoyable activities and seeking support from psychologists or social workers if overwhelmed (Balance Treatment Centre,2025). 

Subsequently, practice compassion and patience in knowing that mental illness is not something that can be “fixed” overnight. Recovery can be a long process, and there will likely be setbacks. It is important to practice compassion, patience and understanding throughout the journey. Avoid blaming the person for their condition. 

“Happiness is not the absence of problems; it’s the ability to deal with them” – Steve Maraboli. Mental illness is not a result of personal weakness or character flaws. Likewise, offer emotional support without trying to “fix” everything. Sometimes, simply listening without offering advice can be incredibly healing. 

Additionally, celebrate small victories by acknowledging any progress, no matter how small, to encourage continued growth and resilience. 

In addition, keep the lines of communication open with your loved one, even if they seem distant or unresponsive at times. Let them know that you are there for them, and encourage them to express their feelings and concerns by validating their feelings. Even if you don’t fully understand what they are going through, acknowledge their emotions and experience. 

Similarly, create an environment where they feel safe to talk about their struggles without fear of being criticised (Balance Treatment Centre,2025). If you or someone you know is struggling with mental illness, don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional. 

Therefore, it is imperative to remember that there is hope for recovery and that with treatment, many people with mental illness return to a productive and fulfilling life! 

*Mwenda Mubuyaeta-Sanandwa is a GBV specialist with a master’s degree in criminology and social policy, a social worker with a BA (Hons) in social work and a Community Counsellor. She holds a Diploma in HIV/AIDS management and counselling and has over 14 years of experience in the helping professions.