Mental Illnesses – Common Mental Illnesses
Mental illnesses are common disorders that cause intense emotions, stress and anxiety. It’s essential to be aware of the warning signs so you can receive assistance if you or someone close to you is struggling with one of these disorders.
Fact: Most people with mental illness respond to treatment. Medication helps reduce symptoms of the disorder and psychotherapy works to enhance how you think, feel and act.
There are many misconceptions about people with mental illness. Some think they’re violent or unpredictable, while others hold that they’re simply products of their own mind.
There is a genetic link to mental illness. Your blood relatives have an increased likelihood of developing such disorders than other people do, and other risk factors include exposure to inflammatory conditions, toxins, alcohol or drugs during pregnancy.
Children and adolescents are particularly vulnerable to developing certain types of mental illness, such as mood or anxiety disorders. Early diagnosis and treatment can help avoid more serious problems later in life.
Some of the most common signs of mental illness include feeling sad or depressed, irritability, sleep difficulties and changes in behavior or thought patterns. These effects can have an immense impact on one’s daily activities, work life and relationships.
Some mental illnesses respond to medication, such as antidepressants and antipsychotics. These drugs alter the chemicals in your brain responsible for symptoms, reducing them back to normal levels. It’s essential that you take these medications exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider; never skip doses without consulting with them first.