Medical FAQ

While talking and listening to kids in schools, churches, community centers, fairs and other places around the city about mental illness, we kept hearing the same questions. This section was developed to answer those questions. If you have a question we didn't answer, or are a mental health professional and would like to contribute to this section, please contact us (215-751-1800 ext. 229 or email kids@mhasp.org). We are here to help.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ Page)

• The basics about mental illness
  • What is mental illness?
  • Can mental illness be treated?
  • What causes mental illness?
  • Can anyone get mental illness?
• Who gets mental illness
  • Is mental illness contagious?
  • Can kids get mental illnesses?
• Getting treatment
  • What is a psychiatrist or a psychologist?
  • What is "therapy"?
  • What happens in a psychiatric hospital?
  • Who takes medication?
• Suicide - Recognizing the symptoms and getting help
  • Why do people commit suicide?
  • What should you do if you or a friend is thinking about suicide?
  • What do you do in an emergency or suicide attempt?
• Who to call for help
  • What is a Community Mental Health Center (CMHC)?

What is ADD / ADHD?

• Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) /
  Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

Taking Medication

• Medications Commonly Used To Treat Mental Illness

Other Internet Resources

• Mental Health Association of Southeastern Pennsylvania
• American Psychiatric Association
• National Alliance for the Mentally Ill
• National Mental Health Association
• National Mental Health Awareness Campaign

Disclaimer: Please remember that the information provided to you on this Web site is designed for general information purposes only. This information should not be relied upon in place of the advice of a professional health care provider, diagnosis or treatment. You are encouraged to confer with a professional mental health care provider should you have any questions about this information or before you make any decisions based upon this information. Finally, if you think you may be experiencing a mental health emergency, you should call your doctor or your local emergency medical service immediately.

Coping

• Coping Skills
• Talk to an Adult

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Tell Your Story

• Tell a Story
• Read a Story

Reach Out

Medical FAQ

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