Mental health problems can range from common worries to long-term conditions. Fortunately, most people who experience these problems can get help early. Because these disorders often have clear definitions, it can be easier for professionals to refer them to the appropriate care. However, many diagnoses are controversial, and mental health professionals worry that people will be treated based on their label instead of the individual’s needs and capabilities. This, in turn, can negatively impact their quality of life.
Some risk factors for mental illnesses include genetics and physical trauma. People with a family history of mental illness are more likely to develop this illness. Other risk factors include substance abuse and physical trauma. Regardless of the cause, it is crucial for individuals to seek treatment to improve their overall mental health. Once diagnosed, psychotherapy can improve the quality of life, productivity, and relationships. Mental illness can also affect the ability to adjust to change and deal with adversity.
The WHO Project ATLAS found that the cost of treating mental illnesses in low-income countries is much lower than the burden of such disorders. This may be because these countries often depend on out-of-pocket spending by citizens. However, the WMH study found that a large percentage of people with mental illnesses suffer from more than one disorder at a time. The WHO report highlights the importance of addressing mental health needs as they affect all aspects of life.
One indicator of mental health is the ability to enjoy life. A positive outlook on life and the ability to bounce back from adversity is a good sign. This means people who are resilient tend to be more able to cope with stress and seek out social support when they need it. This may explain why resilient people often do better in stressful situations. A resilient person can also learn from the experiences of others and develop a strong social network.
Traumatic events can lead to a range of physical symptoms, including depression and anxiety. For example, people with OCD experience constant thoughts about things they fear and have rituals that make them anxious. Another common anxiety disorder is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which develops after experiencing a traumatic event. People with PTSD are often emotionally numb after experiencing such events. A person suffering from PTSD will often be plagued by symptoms for years, including recurring nightmares, excessive fear, and a low self-esteem.
While many critics of state deinstitutionalization point out that prisons and state-provisioned psychiatric hospitals are interrelated, the two are often not the same. For instance, the Penrose Hypothesis states that there is an inverse relationship between prison population and psychiatric hospital beds, assuming that prisoners become inmates and subsequently move between institutions. While this is unfounded, it does raise some important questions.
Behavioral health disorders are extremely common. One in five adults in the United States suffers from at least one mental health disorder. Half of all mental illnesses begin before the age of fourteen. And three-quarters of those with depression or anxiety disorders are diagnosed before the age of 24. Suicide is also a common mental disorder. It is the second leading cause of death for people aged 15 to 34. While these conditions are often unavoidable, they are treatable.