Mental health, as defined by the WHO, refers to a state of well-being that allows individuals to handle life’s stresses, recognize their potential, learn effectively, work productively, and engage with their community.
Mental health issues encompass mental disorders, psychosocial disabilities, and various other mental states.
Individuals facing mental health challenges may experience lower mental well-being, but this is not always the case.
There are four main types of mental health disorders:
1. Mood disorders
These disorders impact a person’s emotional state, leading to a gap between their real-life situation and their feelings. Symptoms can include sadness, feelings of worthlessness or guilt, irritability, suicidal thoughts, sleep problems, and fatigue.
Types of mood disorders include:
- Depressive disorders like major depression, seasonal affective disorder, and persistent depressive disorder.
- Wild disorders (characterized by conflicting thoughts or behaviors).
- Premenstrual dysphoric disorder.
Causes of mood disorders can include imbalances in brain chemicals, medical conditions like brain tumors or thyroid issues, hormonal changes, and stressful life events.
2. Anxiety disorders
These disorders involve intense fear, worry, or unease. They include generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, and specific phobias. Symptoms may consist of restlessness, rapid heartbeat, sweating, and trouble focusing.
Support and treatment often involve long-term therapy, especially dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and psychotherapy.
3. Personality Disorder
Everyone has a unique personality made up of various traits. These traits influence how people perceive themselves and interact with the world. Personality disorders involve long-lasting patterns of behavior and thought that are quite different from what society expects.
Types
Examples include borderline personality disorder (BPD), narcissistic personality disorder, and antisocial personality disorder.
Symptoms
Common issues include trouble managing emotions, a distorted self-image, challenges in building and keeping relationships, and impulsive actions.
Support and Treatment
Long-term therapy, especially dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and psychotherapy, can be very helpful.
4. Psychotic Disorders
Psychotic disorders are serious mental health issues that impact how individuals think, feel, and act. They can lead to a loss of touch with reality, making it hard to tell what is real and what is not.
Types
Examples include schizophrenia and brief psychotic disorder.
Symptoms
Symptoms may include hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thoughts, and trouble distinguishing reality from imagination.
Support and Treatment
Treatment options often involve antipsychotic medications, therapy, and support from family and caregivers.
The Importance of Awareness and Support
Mental health disorders are not signs of weakness; they are medical issues that need understanding and proper care. Early intervention, open discussions, and efforts to reduce stigma are crucial for creating a supportive environment. Some individuals with these disorders can return to normal functioning with treatment, while others may experience varying degrees of disability.
