Psychological illness refers to a range of emotional and behavioral disorders that affect a person’s ability to think, feel, and act normally. They can be caused by a wide variety of circumstances, including biological, psychological, and environmental factors.
Mental illness is more common than many people realize, with nearly 15 percent of adults in the United States having a mental health problem at any given time, according to Mayo Clinic. Historically, people with mental illnesses were kept out of public life, but the stigma surrounding these conditions has decreased significantly.
A mental health professional can help you determine if a loved one is suffering from a mental disorder, and he or she can work with you to develop a treatment plan for the individual. It is also important to seek support from friends and family members who can provide encouragement.
Symptoms of a mental illness vary between patients and can be difficult to pinpoint, notes Mayo Clinic. However, feelings of sadness or depression over a long period of time can be an indicator of a mental illness. Changes in personality or a lack of concentration ability can also point to the presence of a mental disorder.
The brain and the body are closely linked, so mental illness can lead to physical ailments as well. The CDC reports that depression increases the risk of developing chronic medical problems like diabetes and heart disease.
Some types of mental illness can be triggered by stressful experiences or situations, such as traumatic events, which is known as post-traumatic stress disorder. Others, such as anxiety disorders and depression, are characterized by intense feelings of fear or hopelessness that can cause sleep disturbances, appetite changes, and other symptoms.
There is no single definition of a psychological disorder, and this is largely due to cultural differences in how we view mental illness. Some disorders, such as schizophrenia, have a genetic component.
In addition, some people may have a mental illness without ever knowing it. Some may not even seek help.
The most common form of psychological illness is depression, which is characterized by a depressed mood and loss of interest in most activities. It can lead to feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and suicidal thoughts.
Another common mental illness is schizophrenia, a neurological condition that causes hallucinations and other abnormal thoughts and behaviors. It is a serious, chronic illness that can affect a person’s ability to function on a day-to-day basis.
It can interfere with a person’s ability to form relationships and maintain friendships, as well as cause them to have an increased tendency towards self-harm or suicide. It can also cause them to develop severe phobias or paranoia, and they may have a hard time coping with their emotions.
Some of the most common forms of mental illness include depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. These disorders affect a person’s behavior and mood, and they can be difficult to treat. But with the help of a mental health professional, they can learn to cope with their symptoms and improve their quality of life.