About Mental Illness Disorders

Mental illness may affect anyone at any time in life. Symptoms of mental illness can occur during times of stress and are diagnosed if there is a significant impact on level of functioning. There are mental illnesses that are more common than others. Symptoms of mental illness are comprehensively diagnosed by trained clinicians.

Depressive Disorders

Depressive illness can range in severity from mild forms such as dysthymia to major depression. Symptoms of depression included chronic sadness, changes in sleep and appetite, loss of pleasure in activities once enjoyed, frequent tearfulness, and loss of energy and motivation. Depression can affect all levels of functioning--in school, at work, or in social settings.

Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety is a condition that can range from mild generalized anxiety to severe anxiety associated with disorders such as obsessive compulsive disorder or post-traumatic stress disorder. Symptoms of anxiety include excessive worry, feeling on edge, difficulties concentrating, muscle tension, difficulties sleeping, irritability, and easy fatigue.

Bipolar Disorders

Bipolar disorder is a condition that includes mania as part of the diagnostic criteria. Symptoms of mania include inflated self-esteem, abnormally high levels of energy, little or no sleep, compulsive gambling, increased sexual activity, and high-risk behavior such as spending large amounts of money, .

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder is a condition that is relatively common among both children and adults. Symptoms of ADHD include difficulty concentrating, being easily distracted, problems listening and following directions, feeling restless, excessive talking, and high levels of motor activity in inappropriate settings.

Psychotic Disorders

Psychosis is a condition that can occur episodically as a part of other conditions or can be more chronic in illnesses such as schizophrenia. Symptoms include delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized thinking and communication.

References

• Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition, Revised

Resources

• National Alliance for the Mentally Ill