Psychological illness affects everyone’s lives. It affects the way people think, feel, behave, and relate to others. Some psychological illnesses are short-term, while others may last a lifetime. They are caused by a variety of factors. Many of them are treatable. In some cases, they are treated with medicine or therapy. There is no cure for mental disorders, but they can be managed.
Mental disorders are classified into several categories, including anxiety disorders, depression, and schizophrenia. Anxiety and depression are the most common mental illnesses diagnosed. The diagnosis for depression usually involves a depressive episode that lasts more than two weeks. Symptoms can include thoughts of suicide, a lack of energy, and feelings of hopelessness. Depression is usually treated with therapy and medication.
Schizophrenia is an illness that mainly affects an individual’s ability to think and make decisions. Patients who have schizophrenia often have problems with social interaction and relationships. People with this disorder can lead a fulfilling life, but can have trouble making decisions and expressing their emotions.
Traumatic events, such as natural disasters, sexual assault, and physical assault, can also cause psychological illnesses. In addition, there are biological factors that increase the risk for developing mental illnesses. These factors may include genes that are hereditary. Researchers have found that twin studies provide evidence that heritable factors can be used to explain the internalization of mental illnesses.
Although there are many factors that can lead to psychological illnesses, the most significant is a change in one’s perception of reality. This can result in patterns of belief that become dysregulated. Sometimes, these behaviors can be uncontrollable. If an individual experiences an extreme reaction, such as a psychotic episode, they can seek medical attention.
While the roots of psychiatric conditions have been altered through history, the symptoms that define the illness are still the same. People with a psychological illness are treated with the same urgency as those who have a physical injury. Treatment is based on an evaluation of the patient’s life situation, symptoms, and environment.
The onset of a psychological illness can be triggered by environmental exposures that took place before birth. For example, if someone was exposed to a certain drug before he or she was born, that person may develop a substance use disorder. Similarly, an emotional disturbance caused by a life-threatening incident can produce a depressive episode. Other psychological illnesses, such as paranoia, can be triggered by a traumatic event.
During the early 20th century, a “mental hygiene” movement developed in the United States. One of the main purposes was to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illnesses. Twenty-three percent of Americans reported not wanting to see a professional when they were experiencing emotional distress. However, this proportion is less than what is reported by adults in the Netherlands.
Research has revealed that a number of factors can influence a person’s willingness to seek professional help. Some of these factors are cultural. Others are traumatic experiences that may have happened to the patient, such as a recent car accident.