Mental Health Disorders - What You Should Know

Mental health disorders are more common than you may think. In fact, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, 1 in 5 adults in the U.S. experiences a mental illness in any given year. That means that 20% of the population is affected by conditions like anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and others.

Mental Health Disorders - What You Should Know
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Mental health disorders can have a profound effect on a person's life. They can interfere with work, school, and personal relationships. They can cause people to withdraw from society and become isolated. Untreated mental illness can lead to homelessness, substance abuse, and even suicide.

Fortunately, there is help available. Mental health disorders are treatable, and there are many resources available to those who need assistance. If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health disorder, don't hesitate to reach out for help. There is no shame in seeking treatment, and the sooner you get help, the better.

Types of Mental Health Disorders

There are many different types of mental health disorders, each with its own set of symptoms. Some of the most common types of mental illness include:

Anxiety disorders

People with anxiety disorders experience excessive fear, worry, and tension. This can interfere with their ability to perform everyday tasks and enjoy life. Symptoms of anxiety disorders include a racing heart, sweating, difficulty breathing, trembling hands, and stomach churning. Anxiety disorders include generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, agoraphobia, and specific phobias (like fear of heights or fear of flying).

Depression

Depression is more than just feeling sad or down in the dumps; it's a serious medical condition that can interfere with every aspect of a person's life. People with depression may feel hopeless and helpless; they may lose interest in activities they once enjoyed; they may have trouble sleeping; they may eat too much or too little; they may withdraw from friends and family; and they may even have thoughts of suicide. Depression affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves.

Bipolar disorder

Bipolar disorder is characterized by extreme mood swings from highs (mania) to lows (depression). During manic episodes, people with bipolar disorder may feel extremely happy or energized; they may be more talkative than usual; they may take risks or make impulsive decisions; and they may have difficulty sleeping. During depressive episodes, people with bipolar disorder may feel hopeless and worthless; they may have trouble concentrating; they may eat too much or too little; they may sleep too much or too little; and they may lose interest in activities they once enjoyed. Bipolar disorder can be very disruptive to a person's life if it goes untreated.

Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a serious mental illness that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. People with schizophrenia may seem like they have lost touch with reality; they may hear voices that no one else hears; they may believe that other people are trying to harm them; and they may be paranoid. Schizophrenia can be very debilitating if it goes untreated.

Eating disorders

Eating disorders are characterized by an abnormal relationship with food. People with eating disorders may either overeat or undereat. They may be preoccupied with food, weight, and body image. Eating disorders include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder. Eating disorders can be very dangerous if left untreated.

Mental health disorders are more common than most people realize. If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health disorder, don't hesitate to seek help. There are many resources available to those who need assistance, and mental health disorders are treatable. Get help today so you can start living the life you deserve!