frequently asked questions (FAQ)

+ What’s the difference between mental health and mental illness?

Mental health and mental illness are often used synonymously. The difference is that mental health refers to our overall mental well-being (our emotions, thoughts and feelings, perception of the world around us, etc.) while mental illness is an illness which affects interactions, behavior, thoughts, and feelings. Just like with physical health, mental health has varying degrees. People with poor mental health do not have to have a mental illness. It’s also possible for people with a mental illness to have good mental health, as mental illness is often episodic. Good mental health doesn’t mean you have to be happy all the time; it is centered around thriving and coping well despite challenges.

+ What should I use Project Lotus for?

Project Lotus focuses on empowering voices of the community and de-stigmatizing mental health. Although mental health professionals provide us guidance and help control content, we are not mental health professionals and do not function as a mental health clinic.*

+ Where can I go to find therapy?

There’s a wide range of therapy and treatments that are offered. Different kinds of therapy will be more beneficial depending on factors such as the mental health condition and characteristics of the person who has them. Mental Health America has a great factsheet, which also happens to contain information about the different types of mental health professionals!

+ Where can I go to find support groups?

Peer support groups can aid in recovery and general well-being. There are many peer support groups and vary from being peer-led to being led by mental health professionals. Mental Health America sums it up here.

+ Where can I go to find inpatient care?

Inpatient care is generally used in serious mental health cases due to its nature. Inpatient care can help with stabilization to new medication, adjust to varying symptoms, or provide needed help/intervention. Mental Health America has a fantastic article which elaborates further and offers some resources.