Mental Disorders

What are mental disorders?

Mental disorders (also called mental illnesses) are conditions that affect your thinking, feeling, mood, and behaviour. They may last a short time or come and go. Some can be long-lasting. They can affect your ability to relate to others and go about daily life.

What are some types of mental disorders?

There are many types. Common ones include:

• Anxiety disorders — including panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and phobias
• Depression, bipolar disorder, and other mood disorders
• Eating disorders
• Personality disorders
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Psychotic disorders, including schizophrenia

What causes mental disorders?

There is no single cause. A mix of factors can contribute:

• Your genes and family history
• Life experiences — stress, or a history of abuse, especially in childhood
• Biological factors, such as chemical imbalances in the brain
• A traumatic brain injury (TBI)
• Exposure before birth to viruses, toxic chemicals, alcohol, or drugs
• Use of alcohol or recreational drugs
• Having a serious medical condition such as cancer
• Having few friends and feeling lonely or isolated

Mental disorders are not caused by character flaws. They are not about being lazy or weak.

Who is at risk for mental disorders?

Mental disorders are common. According to the WHO, nearly 1 in 7 people worldwide lives with a mental disorder. Effective prevention and treatment options exist — but most people worldwide do not have access to effective care, and access in India is still being expanded through the National Mental Health Programme and its District-level services (DMHP).

How are mental disorders diagnosed?

The steps to a diagnosis include:

• A medical history
• A physical exam and, if needed, lab tests — to rule out other medical conditions
• A psychological evaluation — answering questions about your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours

What are the treatments for mental disorders?

Treatment depends on which disorder you have and how serious it is. Your doctor will work with you on a treatment plan. It usually involves some form of therapy, and sometimes medicines. Some people also need social support and education on managing their condition.

In some cases, more intensive treatment is needed — for example, in a psychiatric hospital. This might be because the illness is severe, or because someone is at risk of hurting themselves or others. Hospital care involves counselling, group sessions, and support from mental health professionals.