"The consequences of this gap in knowledge are quite serious,"
said Carolyn Robinowitz, M.D., secretary-treasurer and 2006
president-elect of the APA. "About one-in-five Americans suffer
from a diagnosable mental disorder during any given year. This
means few families are untouched by a mental illness. All
families will benefit from understanding how these disorders can
impact their lives." The survey also showed that one-third of
Americans mistakenly think that emotional or personal weakness
is a major cause of mental illnesses and almost as many think
old age is a major cause. In fact, research shows the causes of
mental illnesses are genetic and environmental factors,
traumatic events, and other physical illnesses and injuries that
have psychiatric side effects. Robinowitz noted that advances in
medical science have led to new and innovative treatments that
help people live full and productive lives. "Today we know more
than ever about how the brain works and how it affects overall
health," Robinowitz said