Mental illness is defined under the Mental Health Act 2009 (SA) as any illness or disorder of the mind [s 3].

As there is often confusion as to what exactly constitutes a mental illness further clarification is given in Schedule 1 of the Act which spells out what is not mental illness.

A person is not mentally ill merely because of any one or more of the following:

Whilst being temporarily affected by alcohol or drug use does not fall under the definition of mental illness, if a person has sustained serious or permanent physiological, biochemical or psychological impairment as a result of alcohol or drugs then alcohol or drug use can be regarded as an indication that the person is suffering from a mental illness.

Where there is uncertainty as to whether a particular condition is a mental illness, contact a doctor or a Community Mental Health Service. In an emergency contact the Assessment and Crisis Intervention Service (ACIS) on 13 14 65.