May has been declared as Mental Health Month in the county and the Sherburne County officials want to get rid of the stigma surrounding mental illness by helping out sufferers as well as their caretakers. They want to stress the importance of diagnosis and treatment. About 57.7 million Americans face a mental health disorder in a particular year.

Mary Jo Cobb, county social services supervisor said, “Many people are nervous about seeking mental health treatment because of the negative stigma ... but just like heart disease or diabetes, mental illnesses are medical conditions that need to be treated”.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, people can be affected by mental illness, irrespective of their age, race, religion or income. Mental illness is not a consequence of personal weakness, lack of character or poor upbringing.

Cobb added that one in every five youths have mental health problems. About 91,000 need treatment for an emotional trouble. According to Christina Zeise, county social services planner, about 161 children currently get mental health services from the county.

According to the Mayo Clinic, common mental illnesses include depression and schizophrenia. Young are affected by deficit disorder, anxiety and eating disorders. Early identification and appropriate treatment area a must to help children.