what is mental disorder?

what is mental disorder?

mental illness, any illness with significant psychological or behavioral problems associated with either a symptom of illness or headache or an impairment of one or more important areas of functioning. Mental illnesses, especially their consequences and treatment, have more importance and attention today than in the past. Mental illness has become a more prominent topic of attention for several reasons. It has always been common, but with the elimination or successful treatment of many serious physical illnesses that once afflicted people, mental illness has become a more prominent cause of suffering and represents a higher proportion of those affected by the disease. In addition, the public expects the medical and mental health professions to help them achieve a good quality of life, both mental and physical functioning. And there is indeed a proliferation of pharmacological and psychotherapeutic treatments. The transfer of many psychiatric patients, some of whom still exhibit symptoms, from psychiatric hospitals to the community has also increased public awareness of the importance and prevalence of mental illness. There is no simple definition of mental disorder that is universally satisfactory. This is partly because mental states or behaviors considered abnormal in one culture may be considered normal or acceptable in another, and in any case it is difficult to draw the line that health clearly refers to abnormal mental functioning.

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of mental illness can vary depending on the disease, condition, and other factors. Symptoms of mental illness can affect emotions, thoughts, and behavior.

Examples of signs and symptoms include:

• Feeling sad

• Confused thinking or reduced ability to concentrate

• Excessive fear or anxiety or intense feelings of guilt

• Extreme up and down mood swings

• Away from friends and activities

• Significant fatigue,

• lack of energy or sleep problems

• Detachment from reality (delusions),

• paranoia or hallucinations Inability to cope with everyday problems or stress Problems

• understanding and relating to situations and people

• Problems with alcohol or drug use

• A fundamental change in eating habits

• Changes in sexual desire

• Excessive anger,

• rage, or

• violence

• Suicidal thoughts

Reasons

Mental illness is generally believed to be caused by a number of genetic and environmental factors:

Hereditary traits. Mental illness is more common in people whose blood relatives also have mental illness. Certain genes can increase your risk of developing a mental illness, and your life circumstances can cause this.

Environmental exposure before birth. Exposure to environmental stressors, inflammatory conditions, poison, alcohol, or drugs while still in the womb can sometimes be linked to mental illness.

Brain chemistry. Neurotransmitters are naturally occurring brain chemicals that carry signals to other parts of your brain and body. When neural networks involving these chemicals are damaged, the function of nerve receptors and the nervous system is altered, leading to depression and other emotional disorders.

Risk factors

Certain factors can increase your risk of developing a mental illness, including:

• A history of mental illness in a blood relative, such as a parent or sibling

• Stressful life situations such as financial problems, death of a loved one or divorce

• An ongoing (chronic) medical condition such as diabetes

• Brain damage caused by a severe injury (traumatic brain injury), such as a strong blow to the head

• Traumatic experiences such as military combat or assault

• Use of alcohol or recreational drugs

• Childhood history of abuse or neglect

• A few friends or a few healthy relationships

• Previous mental illness