Mental illness is a term that encompasses a variety of disorders. They include, but are not limited to, anxiety disorders, depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and eating disorders. To have a mental illness, one must exhibit significant changes to one’s thinking, emotional regulation, or behaviour. A mental illness affects one’s ability to function in day-to-day activities.
The symptoms for mental illness vary depending on the specific disorder. They can include the following:
It is not unusual to experience the symptoms listed above from time to time. For example, one may feel sad when a loved one passes. It is when this sadness significantly disrupts one’s ability to function that it becomes a symptom of a mental illness.
Mental illnesses can be caused by genetics, brain chemistry, or environment.
Mental illnesses can affect anyone regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, background, or other differentiating aspects. Although everyone is at risk, there are several factors that may increase one’s odds for developing a mental illness. These include:
The diagnosis of a mental illness can be difficult due to the social stigmas and discrimination often associated with having a mental illness. However, having a mental illness is nothing to be ashamed of. It is a common ailment that affects millions of people from around the world. A mental illness is a diagnosable medical condition that can be evaluated and treated.
Most mental illnesses do not improve on their own and only worsen over time. Therefore, it is important to seek treatment as promptly as possible. Treatment is specific to the type and severity of mental illness. The treatment for a mental illness is best implemented with a support system of medical professionals, friends, and family. Treatment most often includes some form of medication and psychotherapy (talk therapy). Self-care is also an important part of treatment. Self-care includes adopting good nutrition and exercise routines while maintaining adequate sleep.
There is no sure way to prevent mental illness. However, there are several methods that can mitigate the effects of mental illness. These include controlling stress levels, taking good care of one’s health, avoiding substance abuse, and having healthy relationships. It’s important to keep in mind that one’s mental well-being is paramount for one’s overall health.