Mental illness affects anyone, no matter what their background, and three-fourths of all cases begin before the age of 24. It can take many forms, ranging from mild problems that interfere with everyday living to serious illness that requires hospitalization. Thankfully, most mental illnesses are treatable and many sufferers are able to return to full function. Some mental illnesses are even preventable. Read on to learn about some of the ways you can protect yourself.
Whether you have an anxiety disorder, depression, or other mental illness, it’s important to seek a proper diagnosis. The doctor can then determine the best course of treatment for you based on the severity of your symptoms, the extent of your distress, and the risks and benefits of each treatment. Treatment options may include psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of these. While these may not be appropriate for every person, they are often beneficial for individuals who suffer from mental illness and want to get better.
People who suffer from a psychological condition such as anxiety often respond to situations with fear or anxiety, causing symptoms of physical discomfort and immobility. Symptoms of anxiety disorders can interfere with a person’s ability to perform daily tasks, including work, school, and social interaction. Also known as affective disorders, depression is an emotional state that affects a person’s ability to think rationally. People with a mood disorder experience periods of extreme happiness and sadness. Bipolar disorder, depression, and cyclic depression are three common forms of mood disorders.
People with a mental disorder often need help to cope with their symptoms and return to normal life. The treatment process should address any symptoms that are limiting an individual’s ability to function. Mental health professionals will often use all available evidence to diagnose a disorder. They will also evaluate the person’s ability to interact with others. This may include working with others, cooperating with others, handling conflicts, stating your own point of view, understanding social cues, responding to corrections, and remaining independent in social situations.
The NIMH suggests that there is no single factor that is completely responsible for your mental health. Genetics, physical trauma, and the misuse of substances can all increase your risk. But there are several other factors that influence mental health and can make it difficult for anyone to avoid it completely. The most important factor to consider when evaluating a mental disorder is the quality of your life. This means knowing what you can do to improve it. If you aren’t able to do these things, it might be time to consider the treatment for yourself.
Emotional mental disorders are among the leading causes of disability globally. The World Health Organization created a survey in 1998 to investigate the severity of untreated emotional mental disorders throughout the world. According to this study, neuropsychiatric disorders account for 37% of all years of healthy life lost due to disease. Unfortunately, even those societies that are richer often cannot afford to treat those with mental health disorders, so the burden is even greater. In addition to the health burden, stigma and discrimination often accompany mental illness.