There are many people who don't understand what mental illness is, and because of the lack of knowledge about mental illness, individuals and their families are suffering in silence. Judith believes that as a society we must understand that mental illness is nothing to be ashamed of. It is a medical condition, just like cancer, diabetes, or multiple sclerosis, which requires medical treatment and recovery is possible. No longer can we allow our family members to suffer in silence, and no longer can we allow them to just sit in their rooms and not come to the family functions, barbecues as family members make excuses and tell their friends and church members or coworkers "Oh, that's just Uncle Sam. He never comes to the family functions or being around people." There are twenty-five things you need to do if your loved one is diagnosed with a mental illness. I had to learn these very important steps, and I would like to share with you my knowledge in hopes that it will help you and your family members, and may this knowledge give you some peace. Here goes.