Psychological illness is a term for a wide range of conditions that disrupt the way people think, feel and function. These disorders often result from biological, environmental and social factors. They may be short-lived or persistent. In addition, they can be recurrent and can affect all aspects of a person’s life. While they are treatable, they can be challenging to deal with. If you or a loved one is experiencing mental health symptoms, you need to get help. Luckily, there are several treatments that can improve the situation.
Mental disorders are classified by the DSM-5, which is produced by the American Psychological Association. The manual provides standardized criteria for diagnosing the condition and lists its various categories. It is based on the biopsychosocial model, which considers both biological and psychological factors.
In the past, there were many classification schemes used by different authorities. For example, in the United States, the Mental Hygiene Movement began in the early 20th century. Then, in the 1990s, the number of official diagnoses increased dramatically. Some of these diagnoses include anxiety disorders, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.
Psychiatry emerged in the mid-19th century as a field that emphasized the connection between the mind and the body. This was a move away from a previous view of madness as a soul-driven, organic phenomenon. There were also significant developments in neuroscience and genetics, which led to a shift in research agendas.
Since the early 1800s, psychiatry has been influenced by theories that describe how certain diseases are caused by traumatic life experiences. Traumatic events include wars, natural disasters, accidents, and physical assault. People have been found to have a greater risk of developing a mental disorder if they are exposed to toxic chemicals.
Psychological illness is also influenced by a variety of social and cultural factors. Studies have shown that abuse, bullying, neglect, and socioeconomic inequality can all be linked to the development of a condition. Additionally, there is evidence that family history and genetics play a role. Many disorders are treatable with both psychotherapy and medicine.
Psychological illnesses are treated in psychiatric hospitals. Most people with these disorders require support from their family and friends. However, there is also a need for more community support. Approximately one-third of U.S. adults were diagnosed with a mental health condition in 2016.
In addition to diagnosing and treating the disease, a psychiatrist can also provide counseling for the patient and their loved ones. Psychotherapy is the most commonly used treatment for a variety of mental disorders. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a form of psychotherapy that focuses on changing thought patterns.
During the 1990s, a new recovery approach was developed. A team-based treatment model was introduced in some regions of the U.S., but coverage and affordability barriers remain.
Treatment for psychological illness includes medication, counseling, and therapy. Some of the most common types of disorders are depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Although there are no known cures, recent advancements have made these disorders more manageable.