An individual’s well-being is determined by both their physical as well as mental health. It is usually observed that though one may pay close attention to their physical health, they may not give the same attention to their mental health. In fact, in spite of the widespread prevalence of mental illnesses, every one in five Americans suffers from a mental disorder, and unfortunately, too often individuals suffering from these can be stigmatized and discriminated against.
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), 75 percent of all the 200 classified mental illnesses develop by the age of 24. They impact every aspect of one’s life, which can be extremely overwhelming and overpowering. This is why a mental disorder should be treated as soon as it is diagnosed. Untreated mental disorders can diminish the quality of life and lead to other complications including suicide ideation.
Today, it is no longer difficult to seek treatment for mental disorders. The diagnosis has become more scientific and mental health treatment centers are better equipped to bring practical solutions to the sufferers. The behavioral health centers practice evidence-based modalities, comprising medications, therapies, and alternative programs, customized to suit each and every individual’s requirement.
Mental Illness and Its Causes
A mental illness is defined as a condition that adversely impacts the way an individual thinks or feels and causes intense mood swings affecting their ability to function properly on a daily basis. It is difficult to point out a single reason for a mental disorder, as it is usually a combination of a number of factors. These may include:
Genetics
A family history of mental disorders substantially increases an individual’s chances of being diagnosed with a mental illness. This is because mental illnesses may be handed down from generation to generation. However, it is not necessary that one would be diagnosed with a hereditary mental disorder.
In-Utero Influences
At times, a person might be exposed to “other” influences like illegal medications, narcotics, stimulants, and nicotine, among others, while still in the womb. This kind of exposure increases the risk of developing a mental disorder at some point in life. A mental illness might affect an individual right after birth or develop later in life. However, just like genetics, it is not necessary that a person exposed in-utero to these would develop a mental disorder.
Brain Chemistry
Human brains maintain a delicate chemical balance, between the levels of neurotransmitters and serotonin, which can be disturbed by hormonal changes or dependence on harmful substances. If this disturbance continues for a long period, it increases the chances of developing a mental illness.
Incidents in Life
Tragic or unexpected incidents in life, like the death of a loved one, divorce, abuse and trauma, can have a profound effect on an individual’s mental health. While a single event might not be enough to trigger a mental disorder, a series of happenings over a prolonged period of time may lead to the development of a mental illness that may have been lying dormant or was previously undiagnosed.
Common Mental Disorders
The most common mental illnesses with the highest rate of prevalence are:
- Depression
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
- Bipolar disorder
- Panic disorder
- Mood disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Schizophrenia
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
Symptoms of Mental Illness
The symptoms of mental disorders can often be confusing and misleading. Symptoms usually overlap making diagnosis of a particular mental illness difficult. Some symptoms may be confused with others. Moreover, at times, the symptoms of a mental disorder can also be confused with those of vitamin deficiencies, thyroid disease or any other physical ailment. Common symptoms of a mental disorder include, but are not limited to:
- Fatigue
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Social isolation
- Suicide ideation
- Loss of motivation
- Severe mood swings
- Disturbed sleep patterns
- Disturbed eating patterns
- Overwhelming thoughts of hopelessness, worthlessness, and loneliness
Seeking Help
Our team of medical experts at our mental health rehab are ready to listen to you and help you. Our mental health treatment helpline
(877) 636-0042 is open 24/7, including a live chat representative available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You are also invited to complete a confidential fill form and a treatment specialist will contact you. Allow our treatment specialists to guide you through the admissions process so that your decision of seeking treatment can be transitioned into concrete steps towards lifelong mental health recovery. You can also chat online with a representative for further assistance.
Medical Concierge offers quality, innovative and compassionate care for mental illnesses and co-occurring disorders. We also offer alumni services and continuing care to ensure sustained recovery.
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