Commentary: Few individuals with mental illnesses become violent

Recently in local and national media, there have been some misguided statements about people with mental illnesses.

On behalf of NAMI of Collier County and those affected by mental illnesses, I want to share accurate statistics to help our community understand and advocate for those in need.

Did you know that 1 in 5 people in the United States lives with some type of mental illness? That is 20 percent of our population, so most of us have a family member, friend or neighbor with a mental illness, ranging from mild anxiety to more serious disorders.

Serious mental illnesses — defined as having a diagnosis such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, along with functional daily living impairments — are relatively rare, affecting one in 25 adults, or about 4 percent of the population.

Modern treatments and services for serious mental illnesses are effective, including medication, counseling, peer support, self-help and practices such as supported housing. With treatment and support, people with serious mental illnesses can lead happy, healthy and productive lives. They contribute to society and make the world — and our community — a better place.

Importantly, less than 1 percent of people with mental illnesses will ever become violent. In fact, they are 2 ½ times more likely than the general population to be victims of violent crime.

However, people with untreated serious mental illnesses are more likely to be violent. The two primary factors contributing to violence are lack of awareness of their illness (a symptom called anosognosia) and treatment noncompliance.

If the person doesn’t know he or she is ill, why take medication or see a mental health professional?

Without treatment, the person’s symptoms, which may include paranoia, delusions or mania, escalate. This can lead to incarceration, homelessness, suicide and violent acts. Lives are lost or ruined.

Mental health providers can engage these individuals with specialized, assertive interventions and help get them on the road to recovery. But these services are costly and relatively scarce in our grossly underfunded mental health system. Historically, Florida has ranked 49th in the U.S. in state funding for mental health services — sadly, recent reports show we’ve dropped to 50th.

What can you do as citizens and neighbors? Instead of fear, disdain or contempt, embrace people for who they are — human beings experiencing a difficult time, who can benefit from your empathy, understanding and support.

Help is available in our community. Collier County has a Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training program, held at NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illnesses) five times a year. The program trains law enforcement officers in effective techniques for de-escalating crisis situations involving people with mental illnesses.

The Collier Sheriff’s Office alone received more than 4,730 calls for services from CIT in the past year. This is an increase of more than 1,000 calls over the same period the year before.

If you believe someone needs assistance from the CIT, call the sheriff’s non-emergency number, 239-252-9300, or 911 if it is an emergency, and ask for a CIT officer to come onsite. They will ensure everyone’s safety, calm the situation and get the person the help needed. Potential crisis situations are averted every day due to the dedicated men and women who participate in the CIT program.

NAMI of Collier County provides advocacy, education and support so people affected by mental illness can build better lives. All services are provided free to the community. If you are seeking support or need information on how to better understand or manage a mental health challenge in yourself, a loved one or even a neighbor, you are not alone. NAMI is here for you.

Pamela Baker is CEO of NAMI of Collier County. Learn more about programs and upcoming events at www.namicollier.org.

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