The difference between a mental illness and a disorder is a matter of legal definition, according to the Citizens Advice Bureau. That is not as always as simple as it sounds.

According to the CAB, mental illness is defined as ongoing symptoms that cause frequent distress and affect a person’s ability to function.

Examples of mental illness include depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, eating disorders, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, psychosis, perinatal depression and addictive behaviors.

“If these ongoing symptoms become more severe, you may meet the definition of having a mental disorder, which is a legal definition,” states CAB.

A mental disorder shares the same qualities as a mental illness but is used in reference to the Mental Health Act to describe the particular symptoms a person has,” say the CAB.

Mental health is the foundation for emotions, thinking, communication, learning, resilience, hope and self-esteem, the American Psychiatric Association says. Mental health is also key to relationships, personal and emotional well-being and contributing to community or society. Mental health is a component of overall well-being. It can influence and be influenced by physical health.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration defines mental illnesses as disorders, ranging from mild to severe, that affect a person’s thinking, mood, and/or behavior.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, nearly one-in-five adults live with a mental illness, SAMHSA states. Many factors contribute to mental health conditions, including:

• Biological factors, such as genes or brain chemistry

• Life experiences, such as trauma or abuse

• Family history of mental health problems

SAMHSA, however, in discussing the topic, refers to mental illness, or disorders, as mental health conditions.

The APA reports that it is not always clear when a problem with mood or thinking has become serious enough to be a mental health concern.

“Sometimes, for example, a low or depressed mood is normal, such as when a person experiences the loss of a loved one,”The report states. “But if that depressed mood continues to cause distress or gets in the way of normal functioning, the person may benefit from professional care. Family or friends may recognize changes or problems that a person doesn’t see in themselves.”

While stigma surrounding mental health conditions remains prevalent, they are a medical condition that requires a professional diagnosis.

For example, the APA report says that some mental illnesses can be related to or mimic a medical condition. For example, depressive symptoms can relate to a thyroid condition. Therefore, a mental health diagnosis often involves a full health evaluation including a physical exam. This may include blood work and/or neurological tests.

Regardless of stigma, no one should be shamed into not seeking medical care for a mental health condition, as the SAMHSA article states:

With early and consistent treatment — often a combination of medication and psychotherapy — it is possible to manage conditions, overcome challenges and lead a meaningful, productive life.

“Today, there are new tools, evidence-based treatments and social support systems that help people feel better and pursue their goals,” SAMHSA reports.

* The APA article, titled What is Mental Illness, can be read at https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/what-is-mental-illness.

* The SAMHSA report can also be viewed online at https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health.