Question

Which are facts about mental illnesses? Check all that apply.

can be medically diagnosed
result in significant impairment of abilities
affect only teenagers
are influenced by both genetics and environment
are often unmanageable and untreatable

Answer 1

True:
- can be medically diagnosed — Yes. Mental disorders are clinically diagnosed using standard criteria (e.g., DSM, ICD) by trained health professionals.
- result in significant impairment of abilities — Yes. Many mental illnesses can cause significant impairment in thinking, mood, behavior, social and occupational functioning; severity varies by condition and person.
- are influenced by both genetics and environment — Yes. Most mental illnesses arise from a mix of genetic vulnerability and environmental/psychosocial factors (stress, trauma, upbringing, substance use, etc.).

False:
- affect only teenagers — No. Mental illnesses can occur at any age (childhood, adolescence, adulthood, older age).
- are often unmanageable and untreatable — No. Many mental illnesses are treatable and manageable with therapy, medication, lifestyle changes, and support. Some conditions can be chronic or harder to treat, but “often untreatable” is incorrect.

If you want, I can expand on any item or give examples of common disorders and typical treatments.