Mental disorders may not influence violent actions

As a lot of the media has been discussing issues of mental health lately, largely due to the shooting spree by Jared Loughner, many experts have spoken out about various aspects of mental illness and the individuals who may be affected with some type of mental disorder.

While no official reports have released the mental state of Jared Loughner, discussions of mental illness are largely speculation. However, some mental health experts claim that individuals who have mental health disorders are no more likely than people who do not have a disorder to commit acts of violence.

The National Institute of Mental Health has released statistics claiming 25 percent of individuals over the age of 18 experience symptoms that could be classified in some type of mental disorder.

Much like physical health, mental health changes with time and can be improved with proper treatment.

Being affected with a mental health disorder often does very little to the productivity and lifestyle of an individual if proper treatment and support is available.

The largest problem, experts claim, is that individuals with mental health disorders often feel ashamed and abnormal due to the thoughts and feelings experienced.

Many resources are available and it is strongly advised to help those in need, even if it is yourself.

For more information, visit the National Institute of Mental Health.