They're a silent thief. They creep into your life when you're not looking and suddenly you're waking up to the sound of your own implosion. There's someone trespassing inside of your home and you're paralyzed at the thought. Do I scream? Do I run? Do I fight? Can I even do anything? Your fight or flight kicks in and you choose to free fall. The thief is mental illness and your mind is your home.

Mental illness does not discriminate. She chooses her victims at random and breaks down the door to your sanity whether you're on 5th Avenue in New York City or a dingy couch in the slums. She will pick your locks and climb into your windows. She might trip your alarm and you might catch her early. But, if you let her, she'll take your sleep, your friends, your job and even your life.

Mental illness is the master of disguise and he wears a different mask to every door. The first is depression; he is dressed in black and clutches his book entitled "101 Reasons Not To Shower Today." Another is anxiety, covered in sweat and constantly picking apart everything from your last conversation -- convincing you that your best friend really cannot stand you. His closet is full of costumes. He knocks, you answer and he shows you the mask that you will let in your door.

Mental illness is smart. She knows your schedule, where you live, the car you drive and everything else about you -- right down to your shower gel preference. She's been casing your house since you moved in and she knows exactly what door to walk through, which closets to open and drawers to unload.

Mental illness is persistent and stubborn. No matter how many times you find him and throw him out or slam the door in his face, he seems to always find a window. You can lock them as tight as they go but he brought his crowbar and he will pry it back open.

But mental illness is not invisible. She takes up the majority of the room in your home when she's there and she wears her badge like a suit of armor -- if you know what you're looking for. She'll dim all of your lights, leave messes everywhere and lock every door.

Mental illness is not what it seems. He may break in and try to steal from you but he always forgets one paramount fact... Mental illness is just an annoying roommate. He may eat all your food and use all the hot water but he can be managed. You can plan around him and learn to live with him. You may even find some silver linings in your rude, freeloading roommate. You just have to figure out how to close your bedroom door and give yourself a break. Take a bath, read a book, go for a walk and get out of your own head.

Mental illness is not strong. Well, mental illness is strong but you're stronger and you will win.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month and if you or anyone you know is experiencing mental illness, visit the Department of Health and Human Service's mental health website for help and more information.