Mental illness, also known as mental health disorders, is a collective term used to describe a wide range of psychological conditions or disturbances that affect a person’s thoughts, behavior, mood, and emotions. Serious mental illnesses can have a profound impact on a person’s ability to function in day-to-day life and are often associated with disability and poor quality of life. Here are five of the most common serious mental illnesses:
1. Schizophrenia: Schizophrenia is a chronic and severe mental disorder that affects how a person thinks, acts, expresses emotions, perceives reality, and relates to others. The disorder is characterized by delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized speech and behavior. People with schizophrenia may experience difficulty in holding a job, forming relationships, and performing daily activities.
2. Bipolar disorder: Also known as manic-depressive disorder, bipolar disorder is marked by extreme swings in mood, energy, and behavior, from periods of elation and grandiose behavior to periods of depression and despair. People with bipolar disorder often experience difficulty functioning in day-to-day life as the disorder can cause significant disruption to their personal and professional lives.
3. Major depressive disorder: Also known as clinical depression, major depressive disorder is a serious mental illness characterized by symptoms of sadness, loss of interest, poor concentration, changes in appetite, and feelings of worthlessness or guilt. Major depressive disorder can be debilitating, making it difficult to perform daily activities like work, school, and socializing.
4. Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD): OCD is an anxiety disorder characterized by unwanted and intrusive thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. People with OCD may feel compelled to perform rituals, like counting, checking, or washing, in order to quell their anxiety. OCD can significantly interfere with a person’s ability to function in daily life.
5. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): PTSD is a mental health condition that is triggered by a traumatic event, such as a violent assault, war, or natural disaster. People with PTSD may experience flashbacks, nightmares, and intense feelings of fear and anxiety. PTSD can have a severe impact on a person’s ability to function in their day-to-day lives.
These five serious mental illnesses are some of the most common psychological disorders, and they can have a profound impact on a