Millions of people in the U.S. are affected by mental illness. It is estimated that 1 in 5 Americans will experience a mental illness in any given year, and more than 50% will be diagnosed with a mental disorder at some point in their life.^[1]

Mental health disorders are strongly associated with the risk, management, progression and outcome of serious chronic diseases and health conditions—including diabetes, hypertension, stroke, heart disease and cancer.

Research also shows that people who eat a healthy diet have a lower risk of chronic conditions, such as obesity, heart disease, type 2 diabetes and certain cancers. A healthy diet is indisputably a fundamental component of one’s physical and mental health.

Not everyone has access to the nutrition they need. Social determinants of health play a key role in health outcomes, and a vicious cycle of poor health is evident among vulnerable populations.

Refer to our resources to learn more about the impact of nutrition on mental health and mental illness.