It would seem from media reports that Jared Loughner suffers from serious mental problems. What else could prompt a young, intelligent man to open fire on a group of strangers gathered on a street corner to talk to their Congresswoman? What else but insanity or extreme circumstances would lead to such violence?

Whether Loughner has experienced symptoms of mental illness is not for me to say. But I can say that people with mental health conditions are no more likely to commit acts of violence than anyone else. Having such a condition is poles apart from being insanely violent. Only a few people with a specific type of mental disorder are prone to violent behavior.



Look around -- and even at yourself. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, one in four people age 18 and older experiences symptoms of a diagnosable mental disorder each year. Each year. This year 20 percent of us will face a major depressive episode, the common cold of brain disorders. Others of us may suffer from symptoms of anxiety, bipolar disorder, autism, schizophrenia, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or other mental health conditions.



But we all live on a continuum of mental wellness, and our place on that continuum varies from time to time.



Nearly everyone with a mental health condition can live productive, fulfilling lives, given effective treatment, good self-care and support. When mental illness goes undiagnosed and untreated, however, it can lead to prolonged sadness, anger and low self-esteem. It can take the joy out of work and blind us to the beauty and love around us. It can make it difficult to sustain loving relationships, earn a living, or maintain overall good health. In rare instances, it can break down internal barriers to committing destructive acts.



We could avoid so much suffering if only we would recognize that it is not unusual to experience mental health symptoms. Furthermore, it is a sign of wellness and strength to seek help with these symptoms.



To learn more about mental difficulties, log onto http://www.mha.org and scroll down to the column titled "educate." If you think you or someone you love might be struggling, talk to a mental health professional. A professional can provide proven ways to live a happy, healthy life.



Also, help ensure that services are available to those who struggle, especially during this harsh economic time when stress is on the rise. Let your state representatives know we need true mental-health parity, which treats mental disorders as any other health problem. Tell them that, while it is important to cut the state budget, there are additional paths to fiscal responsibility. We have a moral responsibility to those for whom public services make the difference between an enjoyable, productive life and a life of wasted potential. Do it today. Budget decisions are being made right now.



When it comes to mental health, we are in this together.



Schambow is president of Mental Health America of Dubuque County. She receives e-mail at info@mhadbq.org.