Mental Illness. These two words have the power to strike nerves and start arguments. They have the power to cause fear, hate, sadness. Mental Illness affects all shapes, races and ages; it does not discriminate. To those who love someone with a mental illness, you know the fight is never ending.

First off, let me be the first to say that a mental illness should never be used as a crutch. It is easy to get caught up in this dynamic, especially when it affects someone you care about. You see, mental illness can have a huge impact on someone and their decision making, but they should never use it as an excuse to abuse or mistreat others.

Having a loved one with a mental illness teaches you how to approach situations from all different angles. You have to perceive situations in a different light. Some of us may struggle with the fear we may also develop a mental illness, especially if we have a parent or sibling with one. Mental illness is always going to be there, and quite frankly you can't change that. If you do happen to develop one, it is perfectly okay. You don't have to fit into some mold to be accepted.

Support. This word is crucial. We have to find the balance between supporting our loved one and not enabling them. There is a huge difference. Sometimes this difference is learned the hard way, at the expense of our hearts. For me this was the case. I learned my family member could not use their mental illness as an excuse to mistreat me. I thought by me being supportive no matter what, it would help both of us. However, it ended up hurting us both.

I know how those seemingly funny jokes about depression, bipolar disorder and anxiety hurt. These affect someone close to you, and you take those jokes personally. It is never okay to joke around about any mental illness. It affects more people than you may realize. Those jokes can be hurtful.

Mental illness is a never ending battle. It can be managed with medications, therapy, and support. However, there is no real cure. To those who fight this battle with their family member, spouse or friend, I know how hard it can be. It is never easy watching someone you care about fight this never ending battle. You are a bigger piece of the puzzle than you think. When the going gets tough, stick around. Mental illness is nothing to be ashamed of.

If someone you care about is struggling with it, encourage them to seek help. There is no shame in needing help. Help is the beginning of a new healthy life.