In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, Winona ORC would like to share some information about Mental Illness. Winona ORC serves 334 people with disabilities on a daily basis. Mental Illness is the largest type of disability we serve totaling 47% of our population, or 157 individuals. Our services help this population become productive citizens in the Winona area, lowering need for governmental programs and hospitalizations. Below you will find statistics and facts about Mental Illness in America.

 

Mental illness is the second leading cause of a disability (next to arthritis) according to national statistics from the SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration). Mental Illness has varying definitions. According to copingwithmentalillness.com, Mental Illness is a substantial disorder of thought or mood that significantly impairs judgment, behavior, capacity to recognize reality, or ability to cope with the ordinary demands of life. It may be due to changes in the brain caused by genetic, toxic, infectious, psychosocial, or traumatic influences.

 

The National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) shares these quick facts on Mental Illness:

 

• Mental Illness affects 1 in 5 families in America.
• 6% or 1 in 17 Americans suffer from serious and persistent mental illness.
• The economic cost of untreated mental illness is more then 100 billion dollars in the U. S.
• Without treatment, Mental Illness can lead to unemployment, substance abuse, legal issues, homelessness, suicide, and unproductive lives.
• Organizations and agencies can significantly reduce symptoms through developing strategies to manage the illness.

 

Winona ORC provides the opportunity for people with Mental Illness to find meaningful work and self-sufficiency. If you or someone you know could use services, please contact Leslie Swartling at lswartling@winonaorc.org or 452-1855.