Mental illness: can Dhamma, meditation help? Can people with poor mental health not just benefit from meditation, but realize  its goals?
Some people with a mental health history have actually benefited from meditation. 

Such benefit is known to occur on a case-by-case basis, similar to how not every person that lives as a monk benefits from monkhood. 

Many meditation centres have experience with mental health and generally require approval from a persons's psychologist or psychiatrist before permitting attendance on meditation retreats.

I have read many sincere accounts of people reducing mental health issues with meditation. 

Also, the atmosphere of genuine metta (loving-kindness) at Dhamma centres is also helpful in reducing anxiety &amp; other self-esteem issues. 

The loving-kindness of a Buddha radiates upon all beings, neglecting none (including fake monks).