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Mental illness does not discriminate or decide to impact the lives of only certain individuals. Nearly 1 in 6 adults in California has a mental health need and 1 in 20 has a serious mental illness. This means that millions of households are affected by mental health in some way. This reaches into every neighborhood in the Golden State, which further suggests that every person is affected, whether family, friends, co-workers, business partners, church members, or neighbors - we are all affected in some way. In fact, the needs are great, deep, and plentiful in every class, generation, ethnic group, and culture in California. Essentially, we are in this together, which is why our education and awareness activities are designed to inspire hope across the landscape and through the ages.

Mental Health California™ aims to provide in-depth information, tips, news, and features on a variety of mental health issues and conditions. Our website offers information and articles on health and mental-wellness topics such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), major depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, and substance use disorders. Our website also features articles on stress reduction and other relevant topics including mindfulness, relaxation, meditation, nutrition, and more. 

We can all suffer from mental health challenges and they can occur at any time during a person’s lifespan development. There are age-related changes that occur from birth, throughout a person's life, and into and during old age. Mental illness is a silent, public health epidemic that affects all socio-economic, cultural, and ethnic groups. It is unique in that it affects people at the individual, familial, and communal level. Research reveals that young children can suffer from anxiety and depression, so it’s important to be aware that mental health disorders can strike at any age, and at any time.

Mental health conditions can arise from psychological, biological, or social issues, as well as life events. Mental health conditions can also be caused by exposure to traumatic or frightening experiences such as sexual assault, war, natural disasters, accidents, or the threat of death to oneself or a loved one. In addition, everyday stress can creep upon us causing mental ailments. Over time, a person can become overwhelmed by intense feelings of anger, shock, fear, guilt, and anxiety, which may greatly contribute to their inability to function.