The first problem is that a mental health professional must first decide exactly how to define “disorder.” How do you determine if there is something psychologically wrong or unhealthy about a person? How do you decide what’s normal and what’s abnormal? If you were to define disorder as something that lies outside of the statistical norm, then people who are considered exceptionally talented or gifted in a particular area would be regarded as abnormal. So rather than focus on actions that are considered outside of the normal statistically speaking, psychologists tend to concentrate on the results of those behaviors. Behaviors that are considered maladaptive and cause significant personal distress and interrupt daily functioning are more likely to be labeled as disorders. This article discusses how clinicians define and classify mental disorders. It also explores how many people are impacted by such disorders every year. The DSM-5 also notes that expected responses to a common stressor such as the death of a loved one are not considered mental disorders. The diagnostic manual also suggests that behaviors that are often considered at odds with social norms are not considered disorders unless these actions are the result of some dysfunction.
Anxiety Changes in appetite Changes in behavior Changes in mood Changes in sex drive Delusions, hallucinations, or other difficulties perceiving reality Depression or feelings of sadness Difficulty sleeping Drug or alcohol use Fatigue or low energy Irritability Loss of interest Social withdrawal or isolation Trouble concentrating Suicidal thoughts or self-harm
For more mental health resources, see our National Helpline Database. Clinicians utilize the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, published by the American Psychiatric Association, to determine whether a set of symptoms or behaviors meets the criteria for diagnosis as a mental disorder. The International Classification of Diseases, published by the World Health Organization, is also frequently used. Mental disorders can be diagnosed by a healthcare provider who has knowledge and experience in mental and behavioral health. This might include a doctor or mental health professional. In order to diagnose a mental disorder, a healthcare professional may ask about a person’s medical history. They will also ask questions about the nature, duration, and severity of the symptoms that a person is experiencing. There are no medical tests that can be used to diagnose a mental disorder, but a doctor may perform a physical exam and run lab tests to rule out different medical conditions that can cause psychological symptoms. Once a condition has been diagnosed, healthcare providers and therapists can recommend treatments that can help. With treatment, people can find ways to cope more effectively and function better in different areas of their daily life. Some of the most common mental health disorders experienced by people in the United States include:
Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) Bipolar disorder Eating disorders Generalized anxiety disorder Major depressive disorder Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) Panic disorder Persistent depressive disorder (PDD) Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Schizophrenia Social anxiety disorder (SAD) Specific phobias Substance use disorder
The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) reports that mental illness tends to be more prevalent among women and younger adults. NIMH defines serious mental illness as a mental, behavioral or emotional disorder diagnosable within the past year that meets diagnostic criteria specified by the DSM-5. These disorders must also lead to serious impairment in functioning that limits or interferes with one or more major life activities. Global prevalence statistics suggest that anxiety disorders, mood disorders, alcohol use disorders, and substance use disorders are among the most common types of mental health conditions experienced by people worldwide.
Psychotherapy
There are many different types of psychotherapy that can be effective in the treatment of a wide variety of mental disorders. Talking to a therapist can help people understand factors that may play a role in their illness and help them develop new strategies to cope. One type of therapy that is often effective is known as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), which involves identifying and changing the negative thoughts and behaviors that contribute to psychological problems.
Medications
Antidepressants, anxiolytics, antipsychotics, and other medications can also be helpful for treating mental disorders. While these medications work in different ways, they typically help create changes in the brain that then relieve symptoms. Medications can have side effects and should always be taken as prescribed by your doctor.
Lifestyle changes: For some mental health conditions, lifestyle changes can be helpful. For example, getting regular physical exercise is associated with reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression. Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM): Other practices that may help people cope with symptoms of mental illness include complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) treatments. Acupuncture, yoga, meditation, mindfulness, and herbal supplements are a few CAM treatments that people may find beneficial. Social support: Having social support can help improve treatment outcomes for mental health conditions. While some mental disorders can cause people to withdraw socially, maintaining social connections to the best of your ability may help you feel better and get the support you need as you manage your condition.
