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Mental disorders

What are mental disorders?Mental disorders (or mental illnesses) are conditions that affect your thinking, feeling, mood, and behavior. They may be occasional or long-lasting (chronic). They can affect your ability to relate to others and function each day.What are some types of mental disorders?There are many different types of mental disorders. Some common ones includeAnxiety disorders, including panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and phobiasDepression, bipolar disorder, and other mood disordersEating disordersPersonality disordersPost-traumatic stress disorderPsychotic disorders, including schizophreniaWhat causes mental disorders?There is no single cause for mental illness. A number of factors can contribute to risk for mental illness, such asYour genes and family historyYour life experiences, such as stress or a history of abuse, especially if they happen in childhoodBiological factors such as chemical imbalances in the brainA traumatic brain injuryA mother's exposure to viruses or toxic chemicals while pregnantUse of alcohol or recreational drugsHaving a serious medical condition like cancerHaving few friends, and feeling lonely or isolatedMental disorders are not caused by character flaws. They have nothing to do with being lazy or weak.Who is at risk for mental disorders?Mental disorders are common. More than half of all Americans will be diagnosed with a mental disorder at some time in their life.How are mental disorders diagnosed?The steps to getting a diagnosis includeA medical historyA physical exam and possibly lab tests, if your provider thinks that other medical conditions could be causing your symptomsA psychological evaluation. You will answer questions about your thinking, feelings, and behaviors.What are the treatments for mental disorders?Treatment depends on which mental disorder you have and how serious it is. You and your provider will work on a treatment plan just for you. It usually involves some type of therapy. You may also take medicines. Some people also need social support and education on managing their condition.In some cases, you may need more intensive treatment. You may need to go to a psychiatric hospital. This could be because your mental illness is severe. Or it could be because you are at risk of hurting yourself or someone else. In the hospital, you will get counseling, group discussions, and activities with mental health professionals and other patients.

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