Thankfully, during the past 10 years, programs like Bell's and the media in general, the stigma associated with mental illness is gradually diminishing. The family and personal problems, associated with mental illness, are horrendous, and the cost to society is staggering. As one person in six will suffer with depression sometime in their lifetime, I would imagine a large company like Bell would be significantly affected, both financially and logistically, by mental illness.
As outlined above, there is a huge range of mental illnesses, and modern drugs have done wonders for those afflicted.
In my experience with depression, it is definitely a disease, just as any other, having a specific cause and characteristic symptoms. As mentioned in the video, it is caused by a chemical imbalance in the brain. The symptoms are well documented in the literature. The two established methods of treatment are drugs and/or cognitive behavioral therapy CBT). Athough the GPs are capable of handling depression, it often requires the services of a specialist. In general, the psychiatrists prescribe the drugs, while the psychologists employ the CBT.
I have found it can be a long process of trial and error in finding the right drug, as everyone is different in their response to a specific drug. What works for one may not work for another. It can help to know what works for a close relative, as there is often genetic factors involved.
As a caregiver for someone with mental illness, it's important to look after yourself. I have found that support groups can make a huge difference in learning how to handle various situations associated with a particular mental illness. The Canadian Mental Health Association offers a large range of services, and may provide the advise and help you need.
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