Various Mental Health Issues: Understanding the Classifications of Psychological Ailments
Mental health disorders are patterns of symptoms that cause distress and can have negative effects on personal, social, or work life. These conditions are characterized by issues regarding mood, thoughts, and behavior.
In the United States, mental health professionals diagnose mental health conditions using the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DSM-5). The DSM-5 recognizes various types of disorders, including neurodevelopmental, personality, trauma or stressor-related, sleep-wake, sexual, and other conditions.
Neurodevelopmental disorders, such as Autism spectrum disorder (which includes Asperger's syndrome and Rett syndrome), Specific learning disorder, Stereotypic movement disorder, and Tourette syndrome, are conditions that affect the development of the brain.
Personality disorders, such as Antisocial, Schizotypal, Borderline, Histrionic, Paranoid, Schizoid, and Dependent personality disorders, are enduring patterns of inner experience and behavior that deviate from the expectations of the individual's culture.
Trauma or stressor-related disorders, including Reactive attachment disorder, Adjustment disorder, Disinhibited social engagement disorder, Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Acute stress disorder, and Conversion disorder, are diagnosed based on experiencing trauma or extreme stress.
Sleep-wake disorders, such as Circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorder, Restless legs syndrome, Narcolepsy, Sleep paralysis, Insomnia, and Non-rapid eye movement sleep arousal disorders (which include sleep terror disorder and sleepwalking disorder), are conditions that affect the quality and quantity of sleep.
Sexual dysfunctions, like Female sexual arousal disorder, Erectile disorder (ED), Premature (early) ejaculation, Genito-pelvic pain/penetration disorder (with subtypes of dyspareunia and vaginismus), Persistent genital arousal disorder (PGAD), and Orgasmic disorders, are conditions that interfere with normal sexual functioning.
Other conditions, such as Gender dysphoria, Illness anxiety disorder (formerly known as hypochondriasis), Dissociative amnesia, Dissociative fugue, Diabulimia, Conversion disorder, Dissociative disorder not otherwise specified, Somatic symptom disorder, and Depersonalization-derealization disorder, involve unique symptoms and experiences.
Substance-related disorders involve changes in brain chemistry that create a dependence on the substance you're using. Examples of these disorders include Alcohol use disorder, Drug use disorder, and Gambling disorder.
Mood disorders, such as Depressive disorders and Anxiety disorders, are mental health conditions that affect your mood, with depressive disorders involving sad, empty, or irritable moods. Mood disorders can also include Bipolar disorder, Cyclothymic disorder, and Mood disorder due to another medical condition.
Personality disorders and mood disorders can often be treated through talk therapy (psychotherapy), medication, or both. Most mental health conditions are treatable, and early intervention can significantly improve outcomes.
It's important to note that mental health disorders are common, affecting around 1 in 5 adults (52.9 million) in the United States. Mental illness can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or background. If you or someone you know is struggling with a mental health issue, it's essential to seek help from a mental health professional.
In children and adolescents, common mental health disorders include severe depression (which increased by 230% from 2010 to 2023), ADHD (affecting about 5% of children aged 3 to 17, more common in boys), eating disorders (which increased by 220%), and sleep apnea (which tripled). In adults, conditions like depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia are more prevalent, with mental health problems often peaking in younger people and then decreasing with age.
Mental health is an essential aspect of overall health and well-being. By understanding the various types of mental health disorders and seeking help when needed, we can work towards a healthier, happier future.
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