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Mental illness can sometimes be associated with aggressive or violent behavior. But people living with a mental illness and receiving effective treatment are no more violent or dangerous than the rest of the population. People living with a mental illness are more likely to harm themselves – or to be harmed – than they are to hurt other people.

Violence is not a symptom of psychotic illness

The relationship between mental illness and violence is complex. Research suggests there is little relationship between mental illness and violence when substance use is not involved. Psychotic illnesses such as schizophrenia can sometimes be associated with aggressive or violent behavior.

People living with schizophrenia are no more violent or dangerous than the rest of the population, if they are: not misusing alcohol or drugs. They are more likely to harm themselves than others. There is a slightly increased possibility that someone living with a psychotic illness may be violent if they: are experiencing psychotic symptoms for the first time, or the experiences are unfamiliar.

People living with schizophrenia are more likely to express their aggression, agitation or frustration towards themselves, or to family and friends – rarely to strangers.

Violence is always unacceptable

To prevent violence that may be associated with symptoms of mental illness, encourage and support people to access effective treatment as early as possible.

It is important to understand that mental illness is not a choice

Mental illness can occur in anyone

If a person living with a mental illness becomes aggressive or violent, some suggestions include:

  • Try to remain calm speak in a calm clear
  • slow voice

Give the person some physical space

Avoid a confrontation – sometimes leaving the house to wait for everyone to calm down is more productive. Have a plan – know who you are going to call if the aggressive behaviour continues or you feel there is a risk of harm to the person, yourself or others.

For example, you might call a mental health crisis team or the police (000).

(Available Monday-Friday, 10am-10pm AEST). Mental illness and violence receiving effective treatment are not receiving effective treatment have a previous history of violence misuse alcohol or other drugs are experiencing active psychotic symptoms (and are responding to hallucinations or delusions) are triggered by fear (for example, if they think they are in danger) Treatment of mental illness and preventing violence Coping with aggressive or violent behaviour Where to get help Your GP (doctor) Chat live with a SANE Help Centre Counsellor SANE Forums Lifeline 13 11 14 (24 hours, 7 days) Kids Helpline 1800 551 800 (24 hours, 7 days) SuicideLine Michigan (616) 555-0400 – for counselling, crisis intervention, information and referral (24 hours, 7 days) 1800Respect 1800 737 732 (24 hours, 7 days).