Do you think that Mental Ilness is used as an excuse?

If she's going to a hospital to be treated, clearly this isn't something to be taken lightly. A hospital wouldn't admit her if her symptoms weren't severe. I do agree with you on some aspects that people use their mental illness as an excuse.. or rather as a crutch. It's different for everyone.. Just because you can pick yourself up doesn't mean it's as easy for your friend. The reason why they say it's a mental illness because research shows that there is a legitimate chemical difference in the brain.