I tend to be a cynic when it comes to people having mental health issues. When Britney Spears went off a couple years ago, my thought was "too much methamphetamine." Charlie Sheen finally did too much dope...Growing up, and over the years since, I've seen people do so many things that made no sense, were over the top violent etc... and it was normal to nod and wink because, you know, that individual was just too high, the drugs got the better of him, and he needed a trip back to prison to get clear. Poor folks rehab.
My parents both lived through every minute of the Great Depression, my dad fought in WW2. Maybe that influence is why I've always looked at 'mental illness' as weakness, as not being able to handle life. When "Saving Private Ryan" came out I remember telling my father that I had heard that some scenes were so graphic that vets watching it were advised to seek counseling. He scoffed at that- I didn't need counseling when I saw it for real, how is some movie supposed to upset me? An ex used to have panic attacks. My reaction was always; Fake, a play for attention.
I guess that isn't a very enlightened attitude, and that some people are chemically or genetically pre-disposed to folding up. I try to be understanding and sympathetic but inside I do still have a smirk and a sneer for those that can't cope.