FACT: Mental health problems are actually very common. In fact, one in four people experience a mental health issue annually. Suicide was the 8^th leading cause of death among Idahoans in 2019, and Idaho has the 9^th highest suicide rate in the nation. Even if you do not have a mental health problem, chances are you have a friend, family member, or co-worker who is affected.

FACT: Mental health problems have nothing to do with being lazy or weak and many people need help to get better. Many factors contribute to mental health problems, including:

• Biological factors, such as genes, physical illness, injury, or brain chemistry
• Life experiences, such as trauma or a history of abuse
• Family history of mental health problems

People with mental health problems can get better and many recover completely.

FACT: People with mental health problems are no more likely to be violent than anyone else. In fact, people with severe mental illnesses are over 10 times more likely to be victims of violent crime than the general population. This myth makes it challenging for people to talk openly about their mental health struggles. Many people with mental health problems are highly active and productive members of our communities.

FACT: Friends and loved ones can make a big difference. If someone you know is experiencing a mental health problem, just staying in touch can be very helpful. You can be an important influence to help someone get the treatment and services they need by:

• Reaching out and letting them know you are available to help
• Helping them access mental health services
• Learning and sharing the facts about mental health, especially if you hear something that isn’t true
• Treating them with respect, just as you would anyone else
• Refusing to define them by their diagnosis or using labels such as “crazy”