Mental health is crucial to our overall well-being, yet many still struggle with mental health disorders. In fact, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), one in four people in the world will be affected by mental or neurological disorders at some point in their lives. Here are the top 10 common mental health disorders diagnosed by psychologists.
Common mental health disorders
1. Depression
Depression is a mood disorder characterized by persistent sadness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest in activities that a person once enjoyed. It can also cause physical symptoms such as fatigue, difficulty sleeping, and changes in appetite.
2. Anxiety disorders
Anxiety disorders are a group of mental health disorders that cause feelings of anxiety, fear, or panic, which can interfere with a person’s daily life. Examples include generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder.
3. Bipolar disorder
Bipolar disorder is a mood disorder characterized by episodes of mania (elevated, euphoric, or irritable mood) and depression. It can be challenging to diagnose because it often involves extreme mood swings.
4. Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a severe mental disorder that affects a person’s ability to think, feel, and behave clearly. It is a complex condition that involves a range of symptoms, including hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, and difficulty with cognitive processes such as memory and decision-making.
5. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
OCD is an anxiety disorder characterized by repetitive thoughts, obsessions, and repetitive behaviors or compulsions. People with OCD may feel compelled to perform certain rituals, such as washing their hands excessively or checking things repeatedly, to alleviate anxiety.
6. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
PTSD is a disorder that can occur after a person has experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. It is characterized by symptoms such as flashbacks, nightmares, and avoidance of triggers that remind the person of the traumatic event.
7. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder affecting a person’s ability to concentrate, pay attention, and control impulses. It can also cause hyperactivity and impulsivity.
8. Eating disorders
Eating Disorders are mental health conditions involving distorted attitudes toward food, weight, and body image. Examples include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder.
9. Borderline personality disorder (BPD)
BPD is characterized by intense and unstable emotions, impulsive behaviors, and a distorted sense of self. People with BPD may struggle with self-harm, substance abuse, and unstable relationships.
10. Substance use disorders
Substance use disorders involve the abuse or dependence on drugs or alcohol. These disorders can cause physical, psychological, and social problems and often require specialized treatment to address.
It’s important to remember that mental health disorders can be treated with the help of mental health professionals. If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health disorder, seeking professional help is a vital step toward recovery.
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