5 Of The Most Common Mental Illnesses To Recognize

It is estimated that around 20% of Americans live with a mental illness, but only half of these people ever receive treatment for it. 

Although it has become acceptable to talk about mental health, there remains some stigma, and it is important that people take the time and effort to look for signs of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other forms of mental illness in their friends and family. They may be struggling with one of these conditions, but not know how to raise the subject and get help.

1 – Anxiety

Anxiety is the most common mental disorder in the USA. It can lead to panic attacks and serious phobias, and these can be triggered by any of a range of events or occasions. With some types of anxiety, it can be difficult to identify the actual root cause. 

Anxiety can negatively impact personal relationships and jobs, and it can lead to health complaints due to lack of sleep and elevated heart rate. Unfortunately, not all anxiety attacks are external. Mild anxiety can be treated using a range of holistic therapies, including yoga.

2 – Depression

Nearly 7% of all US adults suffered a major depressive episode in 2016. This means that they suffered from depression for a period of over two weeks.Symptoms of mental health can be difficult to spot, but look for a loss of appetite, a disruption in sleep patterns, and a sudden unwillingness to partake in events and activities that the individual would normally enjoy.

Some sufferers have reported that physical exercise can help them to combat the many symptoms of depression, especially in those suffering from mild to moderate depression.

3 – Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is characterized by sudden and regular shifts in mood. These can be accompanied by hysteria and mania. Whether the sufferer is having a manic or depressive swing, they may be unable to successfully complete daily tasks, which means that jobs and schoolwork can suffer. They may also be prone to extreme behavior. The most obvious sign that a person is suffering from bipolar is the sudden change in mood.

4 – PTSD

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is commonly associated with soldiers and survivors of conflict, but any individual that has undergone a traumatic, near death experience, can suffer. They will often relive the worst moments, especially when faced with memorable cues such as sights or sounds. 

Because PTSD can be accompanied by violent episodes and potentially very frightening thoughts, it is advised that sufferers get help from a mental health treatment center or other mental health professional.

5 – Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia can completely change the way that a person thinks or behaves. It can lead to the sufferer becoming withdrawn and it can lead to serious changes in sleeping and eating patterns. 

Many, although not all, patients will experience hallucinations that can involve sights, sounds, smells, and tastes that are not real outside the mind. They are very real to the person suffering them, however. Schizophrenia is a serious disorder and medical attention should be sought as soon as possible.