Last Updated on May 15, 2023
Mental health is often overlooked in our world today. Many people don’t pay enough attention to their mental health. This has somehow contributed to the high rate of suicide and other mental illnesses and disorders in our world today. For example, the prevalence of mental illness is high in the US. 1 in 5 adults suffers from a mental disorder every year. Also, serious mental illness affects about 1 in 20 American individuals annually. And at some point in their lives, around half of Americans will receive a mental health diagnosis. The cuts across the board, and many people suffer from mental health disorders.
However, the good thing is there are now several organizations, NGOs, foundations, and so on who are working tirelessly to curb the excesses of mental health disorders in society. If you ever feel overwhelmed, there is help. It’s okay to talk about anything, so you can get better. Here, we detail some facts about mental health disorders you should know. If you or anyone you know feel like you have mental health disorders, hopefully, this gives you the vital information you need.
Differences Between Mental Health, Mental Disorders, and Mental Illness
It’s important to know that mental health, mental disorders, and mental illness are three different terms. So as not to mix them up, below is an overview of the three terms.
What Is Mental Health?
Our emotional, psychological, and social well-being are parts of our mental health. It influences our thoughts, emotions, and behavior. It also influences how we respond to stress, interact with people, and make good decisions. Most importantly, mental health is crucial at every stage of life. From childhood to adolescence and even through to adulthood.
Read: 7 Habits That Will Boost Your Mental Health
What is Mental Disorder?
An individual’s ability to think, regulate their emotions, or behave normally is clinically significant when they have a mental condition. It frequently results in distress or functional impairment in key areas. Mental disorders come in a wide variety of forms. The term “mental health conditions” can also be used to describe mental disorders. The difference is that the latter is a more inclusive phrase that includes mental illnesses, psychosocial disabilities, and (other) mental states linked to significant distress, functional impairment, or risk of self-harm.
What Is Mental Illness?
Mental illnesses are ailments that affect emotion, thought, and behavior (or a combination of these). Distress and/or difficulty coping with daily tasks at work, in the family, or in social situations can also be symptoms of mental illness.
Now, we believe you have a better understanding of the three terms. Now, let’s get back on track.
Read: Why Your Mental Health Should be Protected At All Costs
Some Mental Health Disorders
Depression, anxiety, eating disorders, substance addiction, and attention deficit disorder (ADD/ADHD) are the five most prevalent mental health disorders. These mental disorders affect millions of people in the United States and around the world.
What are the Causes of Mental Health Disorders?
Just like every other thing, the causes of various mental health disorders vary. There are numerous potential causes of mental health issues. Although various people may be more severely impacted by specific things than others, it is likely that many people are affected by a complex combination of circumstances. Check out some of the potential causes of mental health disorders below:
- Social isolation or loneliness
- Experiencing childhood abuse, trauma, or neglect
- Being subjected to prejudice and stigma, including racism
- Social exclusion, destitution, or bereavement
- Severe or ongoing stress
- A physical health issue that has persisted for a long time
- Unemployment or job loss
- Housing issues or homelessness
- Becoming a person’s long-term caregiver
- Abuse of drugs and alcohol
Although lifestyle issues like employment, nutrition, drugs, and lack of sleep can all impact your mental health, there are frequently additional elements involved if you have a mental health issue.
Must-know Facts About Mental Health Disorders
Having said all of these, the following are the facts you must know about mental health disorders:
Having A Mental Disorder Does Not Amount to Being Violent
Contrary to the normal belief that mentally ill people are violent and unpredictable, most of those who struggle with mental health issues are no more violent than anyone else. Only 3% to 5% of violent acts are committed by those who have a serious mental condition, and the majority of those who have a mental illness do not engage in violence.
In fact, compared to the general population, those who suffer from serious mental diseases are over 10 times more likely to become victims of violent crime. Because many people with mental health difficulties are very involved and valuable members of our communities, you likely know someone who has a problem but isn’t even aware of it.
Read: Negative Effects of Compulsive Gambling on Mental Health
People With Mental Disorders Can Still Function in Jobs
As opposed to the general belief that people going through or managing mental health disorders cannot tolerate the stress of holding down a job, the truth is, many of these such people can. Not all mental health disorder takes over your brain functionality, and there are even ways to curb the excesses that spring from the condition. In summary, some mentally ill employees are just as effective as normal workers. People with mental health issues who are hired by employers exhibit strong attendance and punctuality, as well as motivation, quality work, and job longevity that is equal to or longer than that of other workers.
Another interesting part is effective mental health treatment for them as employees can lead to the following outcomes:
- Reduced overall medical expenses
- A rise in productivity
- Decreased absences
- Reduced costs for disabilities
People With Mental Health Disorders Can Get Better Or Even Recover Completely
Those who struggle with mental health issues get better, and many even fully recover. The process of being able to live, work, learn, and take part fully in society is referred to as recovery. More therapies, services, and social support networks exist today than ever before, and they are effective.
Hence, once you notice symptoms of mental health disorders in your family, relatives, friends, neighbors, or anyone you can help, get them the help they need as soon as possible. Do not give room for doubt or the belief that they can never recover. Get them help as soon as possible because people can control, get better or even recover from mental health disorders with the right attention.
Read: Why is Good Hygiene Essential for Health?
Be Diagnosed and Opt for the Right Treatment
One of the most important things to pay attention to is the kind of processes a particular mental disorder requires. Sometimes, it might require therapies, and sometimes it might be pills. Whichever way, be diagnosed and opt for the right treatment.
However, depending on the individual and the nature of the mental issue, medication, therapy, or a combination of the two may be used to treat mental health issues. During the healing and rehabilitation process, many people collaborate with a support network.
You Can Help Prevent Someone From Developing a Mental Health Disorder
To reduce the likelihood that children, teens, and young adults will experience mental health issues, it is important to address identified risk factors, such as trauma exposure. Promoting children’s and adolescents’ social and emotional development results in the following:
- Increased general productivity
- Improved educational results
- Decreased crime rates
- More robust economies
- Lower expenses for healthcare
- Enhanced standard of living
- Lengthened lifespan
- Greater family harmony
Mental Health Disorders Happen in Children Too
Early warning signals of mental health issues can appear in even very young children. These clinically diagnosable mental health issues can result from a combination of biological, psychological, and social variables.
The initial symptoms of half of all mental health disorders appear before the age of 14, and the first signals of three-quarters of mental health disorders appear before the age of 24.
Unfortunately, only 50% of kids and teenagers with diagnosable mental health issues get the help they require. Before issues interfere with a child’s other developmental needs, early mental health care might be beneficial.
I Think I Have Mental Disorder – What Can I Do?
The majority of mental disorders cannot currently be cured. However, they can typically be managed to lessen symptoms and help the person function in jobs, education, or social settings. An individual must first see a trained mental health practitioner to start treatment. The doctor or other mental health specialist will first speak with the patient to learn more about their symptoms, how long they have been present, and how they are impacting their lives.
In order to ascertain whether there are any additional medical issues, the doctor will also perform a physical examination. For instance, some symptoms (like mood swings) may be brought on by neurological or hormonal issues linked to long-term conditions like heart disease, or they may be an adverse consequence of specific medications. The doctor will create a treatment plan after assessing the patient’s general health and diagnosing the ailment. Depending on the ailment and how severe it is, a combination of drugs and psychotherapy may be used for treatment.
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