Mental Illness Examples
Seth Taube
On 14 November 2022

Mental illnesses are a common problem affecting an increasing number of people today. They are characterized by a combination of mental and physical symptoms and can interfere with a person’s daily functioning and emotional health. Although many mental health disorders have no known cause, some symptoms are well understood and are treatable. Here are some common mental illnesses and their treatments.
Borderline personality disorder
People with borderline personality disorder (BPD) have problems regulating their emotions and impulses. They are often highly sensitive to their environment and experience extreme emotions in response to the smallest changes. Their behaviors reflect their attempts to cope with their own emotional pain. Although the exact cause of BPD is unknown, social and genetic factors may play a role. It is common among women and in people who are hospitalized for mental illness.
The treatment for borderline personality disorder may include psychotherapy and medications. In some cases, the patient may need a short stay in a hospital. Once diagnosed, the healthcare provider will work with the patient to develop an individualized treatment plan. People who suffer from BPD may also have co-existing disorders that make treatment more challenging. Psychotherapy can help patients identify their motives for behavior and help them learn to relate to others in a positive way.
Depression
Depression is a common mental health disorder that can affect anyone at any time. While it is most commonly associated with adulthood, it is becoming increasingly recognized that it can also occur in children and adolescents. The symptoms of depression can be very similar in both children and adults. Many chronic mood disorders start in childhood as anxiety and irritability.
Those who are suffering from depression should seek medical attention and mental health support. Psychotherapy, also called talk therapy, can help change habits that contribute to depression. Some examples of psychotherapy include cognitive-behavioral therapy and interpersonal therapy. In more severe cases, electroconvulsive therapy, or ECT, can be administered to help relieve depression. This form of treatment is very effective and is often a first-line intervention for severe cases.
Mental Illness of Bipolar disorder
If you have ever wondered what is bipolar disorder, you may be interested to know that it is a complex mental illness that causes mood swings of varying intensity. The disorder is characterized by changes in brain chemistry and structure and can also be accompanied by highly stressful events. Its symptoms include extreme changes in sleep and eating patterns, as well as mood and behavior changes.
There are several medications that can help people manage the symptoms of bipolar disorder. These include first-generation neuroleptics (also called antipsychotics) and second-generation neuroleptics (also known as antipsychotics). These medications are generally used to control a person’s mood. It is important to understand the risks and side effects associated with these medications before taking them.
Illness anxiety disorder
Illness anxiety disorder can be a serious problem for people. It can affect an individual’s social and professional life and can lead to physical disability. A person with illness anxiety disorder may frequently take time off from work, causing occupational difficulties. They may also have high medical bills because of frequent trips to the doctor. The problem also increases the person’s risk of developing other mental illnesses.
Illness anxiety disorder may cause an individual to overreact to even the smallest symptoms of an illness, and they may over-react. These people may feel embarrassed about sharing their current health status or symptoms with others. People with illness anxiety disorder also experience symptoms that are similar to obsessive-compulsive disorder. They may obsess over small details and feel compelled to touch lumps or examine themselves. In addition, their symptoms may lead them to neglect necessary health care.
Mental Illness of Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a disorder in which you cannot control your thoughts and feelings. It affects people’s lives and can affect their work, school, and social functioning. Symptoms of schizophrenia develop gradually over time, and it is not always obvious at first. However, it’s important to seek help as soon as you notice a pattern of behavior that persists for a prolonged period of time. Often, individuals with schizophrenia are hesitant to seek help because they are worried about being judged or criticized by others. However, seeking reassurance from trusted people can help individuals reach out for help.
In early stages, symptoms of schizophrenia include eccentricity, emotional detachment, and social withdrawal. In addition, early symptoms often include deteriorating performance at school and work. Fortunately, early detection of schizophrenia can lead to successful treatment.