Mental illness spans hundreds of medical definitions of mental illness conditions; from mild to debilitating. It cascades into countless cultural meanings and interpretations; includes possible metabolic effects, influence on social relationships and personality postures. It can affect your physical health, your metabolic functioning, your attitudes, emotions, self-esteem and ego, and your social interactions. Ultimately, it can affect your being and your life – and the lives of those that care for you, work with you, live with you.

There is no one definition, no matter how authoritative the source.

It is a human condition and as such, we have chosen to present various interpretations and explanations on this website. In this section, we will provide theories on the “presentation” of symptoms, opinions on causes, care and treatment. In other sections, we will present varied perspectives on impact and ways you may be able to face and manage the challenges.

The key for us is to have a spirit of unity – there are useful aspects to understanding all interpretations, and you can re-assemble the pieces for yourself – so you can shape your own definition of mental health and illness, and ways to care for your wellness.

> Attempting to ‘define’ Mental Health (CLICK)
Definitions of mental illness, multiple authors

> What is Mental Illness? A presentation on interpretations & perspectives
By Charmaine C. Williams Ph.D. Associate Professor Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work, University of Toronto © 2013, 2014
“What is Mental Illness” is a wonderfully clear overview on the various ways “mental illness” is perceived and defined.

> Supporting Children’s Mental Health; An Educator’s Perspective
By Dr. Maria Kokai, C. Psych. Chief Psychologist Toronto Catholic District School Board
An overview on children’s mental health in an educational context& environment

> Defining Orthomolecular Health – an overview
Editor’s summary of the work of Dr. A. Hoffer, Dr. Linus Pauling PhD and the Orthomolecular practice in the area of mental health that focuses on the role of nutrition, vitamins and other physiological elements.

> Stress: The Psychology / Physical Link
Stress affects your brain and body.  Too much of it can have a negative effect.
By John Carpi, published on January 01, 1996 Psychology Today

> College Student Mental Health:
A comprehensive guide to help college students identify common mental health disorders, their warning signs, how to manage them and when to seek treatment.  A very clear and practical guide for not only College students, but EVERYONE!

> The Stigma Enigma In Mental Health in the Asia & Pacific Region
By Dr. M Parameshvara Deva, Prof. of Psychiatry, Malaysia
In many Asian & Pacific communities, the mentally ill are faced with prison-like conditions instead of being served as people with treatable illnesses. This is due to systemic stigma that starts with the way doctors, nurses and practitioners are educated and trained.