Mental Disorders

Mental disorders are conditions that affect a person's thinking, feeling, mood, ability to relate to others, and everyday functioning. This includes a wide range of mental health conditions such as depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, and schizophrenia. Mental disorders are very common and affect millions of people worldwide; however, they are often misunderstood, stigmatized, and under-diagnosed. Mental disorders can manifest in different ways and can impact an individual in multiple areas of life. Symptoms of mental disorders are usually experienced in the areas of thinking, mood, and behavior. Examples of thinking symptoms include confusion, difficulty concentrating, trouble making decisions, and feeling disconnected from reality. Mood symptoms can include feeling overwhelmed, excessive worrying, sadness, irritability, guilt, and feelings of hopelessness. Lastly, examples of behavioral symptoms include isolating oneself, engaging in risky behaviors, changes in sleep and appetite, and neglecting responsibilities. There are various causes of mental disorders, including biological factors such as genetics and hormones, and environmental factors such as trauma, abuse, or stress. Mental disorders can also be caused by a combination of factors, including both environmental and biological. As with other illnesses, mental disorders are best treated as early as possible to avoid worsening of symptoms. Treatment for mental disorders will depend on the type and severity of the disorder, but generally includes a combination of therapies, medications, and lifestyle changes. Psychotherapy or counseling can help individuals manage their symptoms, understand the source of their disorder, and learn new coping strategies. Common types of psychotherapy include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), interpersonal therapy (IPT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). Medications, such as antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, antipsychotics, and mood stabilizers, may also be prescribed to help alleviate symptoms.