Most mental illnesses are not life sentences and people who live with mental illness can lead full lives, despite some popular myths.
Mental health in Australia is often misunderstood and misrepresented, Mindframe National Media Initiative manager Marc Bryant said.
He said mental illnesses were not all the same, and the illnesses people live with are often unique personal conditions.
“People experience mental illness in their own personal way,” Mr Bryant said.
He said another common myth was that talking to someone would not do any good.
"Talking to someone you know and trust is a massive step in the right direction."
Saturday, 10 October, is World Mental Health Day.
If this article has caused concerns for you or someone you know, these services are available to offer support over the phone:
A federal government funded website, , provides translated mental health information and can direct you to help.