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A disturbance of mood that is prolonged and severe in nature, causing a significant amount of distress in the individual's life. Examples of mood disorders include depression, bipolar disorder amongst others.
A category of disorders where anxiety (excessive worrying, irrational thoughts, apprehension) is the main characteristic feature. It can be in response to a specific trigger (such as having a phobia), but this need not necessarily be the case always. An anxiety disorder can manifest in the form of a heightened state of worry, tension and excessive apprehension caused without any apparent reason. These symptoms can significantly affect a person's daily functioning.
A personality is the way an individual thinks, feels and behaves that makes them different from someone else. An individual's personality is influenced by several factors,their experiences; environment (including their childhood and life circumstances), and inherited characteristics. The personality typically stays the same throughout their life. A personality disorder is when an individual has unhealthy patterns of thoughts and emotions that impact their behavior and make it difficult for them to function.
Psychotic disorders (such as schizophrenia) refer to illnesses where there is an onset of psychotic symptoms that may include delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech or behavior, or being in a catatonic (motionless or sitting still for long hours) state. This can be a condition that lasts for a few days, or one that needs to be managed on a long-term basis like in case of a chronic physical illness.
An unhealthy pattern of eating that can cause harm to the physical or emotional health of the individual. The most common examples include anorexia (anorexia nervosa), bulimia (bulimia nervosa), and binge-eating disorder (BED).
like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), are illnesses caused due to the impact of trauma on the person's mental health.
Disorders that stem from an excessive and harmful use of a substance like alcohol, nicotine, prescription and recreational drugs, are defined as substance abuse disorders.
A : A mental illness refers to a health condition that affects a person emotionally, psychologically, and behaviourally. Like a physical illness, a mental illness also requires professional treatment. But, unlike some physical illnesses, mental illnesses are caused by a combination of biological changes, psychological factors and the socio-economic circumstances of a person.
A : They are treated with a combination of therapy and medication depending on the severity of the illness. Some may not even require medication, and can be addressed with psychotherapies like cognitive behavioral therapy.
A : If you suspect that you or someone you know has a mental illness, you should consult a mental health professional. They could be a counselor, psychologist or psychiatrist.
A : Depending on the cause of the mental illness, it could be curable. Nonetheless, mental illnesses can be treated and managed with therapy and medication. Some mental illnesses like bipolar disorder and schizophrenia require medication while illnesses like depression and anxiety disorders can sometimes be treated with just therapy.
A : Mental illnesses are treated with a combination of therapy and medication depending on its severity. Some may not even require medication, and can be addressed with psychotherapies like cognitive behavioral therapy or even a lifestyle change.
A : Psychiatric medication is prescribed to manage the symptoms of the mental illness, primarily to enable the person to engage in therapy. There are five types of psychiatric medication:
A : Psychotherapy uses scientifically tested procedures to help a person manage their thoughts and feelings, and develop healthier habits. It offers a supportive, non-judgmental environment for them to be able to speak openly about their problems and share their emotions; helping them change unhealthy thought and behavior patterns.
A : Psychiatric hospitalization is when a person is admitted into a mental health establishment for any length of time. This can range between a single day to a few months, and provided in-patient care. Psychiatric hospitals are meant to provide a safe environment where a person can recover with the help of a structured environment and therapy.
A : You must never stop your medication without consulting a psychiatrist, otherwise this may have an adverse effect on your brain. Once you no longer require medication, your psychiatrist will safely wean you off them. Most mental illnesses are treated with medication only temporarily to manage symptoms. There are exceptions such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia where medication might be used for much longer periods of time.
A : Another common concern is that psychiatric medication numbs down emotions. There are multiple side effects that can arise from taking psychiatric medication. If your medication is making you feel numb or causing other side-effects like insomnia or low libido, you must get in touch with your psychiatrist so that the prescription can be amended. The medication is to help you get better; your feelings and comfort are of utmost importance.
