Mental Illness Is More Common Than You Think—And You’re Not Alone

If you’ve ever felt like you’re the only one struggling—or that something must be wrong with you for needing support—you’re not alone. Mental illness is far more common than most people realize. And during Mental Illness Awareness Week (Oct 6–12), we’re reminded that sharing our experiences and breaking the silence can be a powerful step toward healing.

The Numbers Tell a Story—But So Do Our Lives

  • 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. lives with a mental illness

  • Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide

  • Anxiety, trauma, and mood disorders often begin young—and many go undiagnosed

But behind these numbers are people. You. Your friends. Your family. Your community. The truth is, most of us are navigating something—whether or not we’ve named it out loud.

Why It Feels So Isolating (Even When It’s Common) Mental illness is often invisible. And because our culture still treats emotional pain as weakness, many people:

  • Feel pressure to hide what they’re going through

  • Minimize their own needs because “others have it worse”

  • Struggle in silence, even while appearing “functional”

Shame thrives in isolation. But healing begins with connection.

You’re Not a Diagnosis—But Your Experience Deserves Care At Sprout Therapy PDX, we don’t reduce you to symptoms or labels. We meet you with curiosity, not assumptions. Whether you’re living with anxiety, depression, PTSD, bipolar disorder, or something you haven’t named yet—you deserve care that honors your full humanity.

What Support Can Look Like

  • Therapy that centers your lived experience—not just textbook definitions

  • A place to process patterns without judgment

  • Tools that help you regulate, reflect, and reconnect

  • A therapist who sees your strengths, not just your struggles

Mental illness isn’t rare. It isn’t shameful. And it isn’t something you have to navigate alone. If you’re struggling, know this: you are not broken, you are not a burden, and you are deeply worthy of support.

Looking for a therapist who understands that mental illness is only one part of your story? Sprout Therapy PDX offers affirming, inclusive therapy for people navigating a wide range of experiences. Reach out today to connect with someone who truly sees you.

Emelie Douglas