Mental health is relevant to your emotional and psychological well-being. Being in a state of good mental health allows you to lead a happy and healthy life. It aids in your ability to cope with the challenges of daily living.
Your mental health can be affected by various factors like life events or genetics.
To maintain good mental health, the following should be practiced:
- having a positive attitude
- being physically active
- good sleeping habits
- eating a healthy diet
- seeking professional help
- socializing
- using coping skills
Mental illness pertains to a vast range of conditions that influence the way you feel and think. It also affects your ability to cope with everyday life. Predisposing factors include:
- genetics
- biology
- environment
- daily habits
Mental health disorders
The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) aids in the diagnosis of mental illnesses. There are many types of mental health disorders with varying severity.
Some of the most common mental illnesses include:
Major depressive disorder (MDD) or Clinical depression – feelings of extreme sadness or hopelessness that lasts for at least two weeks.
Persistent depressive disorder (Dysthymia) – chronic depression. Symptoms last for at least two years.
Bipolar disorder – a chronic mental illness that is typified by periods of energetic, manic highs alternating with extreme, depressive lows.
Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) – causes a person to become extraordinarily worried.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) – persistent and repetitive mostly unreasonable thoughts, or obsessions.
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) -triggered by experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event.
Social anxiety disorder (Social phobia) – extreme fear of social situations.
Schizophrenia – a person’s perception of reality is diminished or lost; hallucinations, delusions
The diagnosis of a mental health disorder is a multi-step process. Your primary care physician may perform a physical examination laboratory test followed by a psychological evaluation. Depending on the results, a mental health practitioner consult may follow.
Mental health treatment works to reduce symptoms, tackle underlying causes, and manage the condition.
The most common mental health treatments are:
Psychotherapy (talk therapy) – therapists basically act as a sounding board and neutral arbitrator
Medications – antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, antipsychotic medications, and mood-stabilizing medications.
Hospital and residential treatment – some people may need inpatient psychiatric treatment Louisville for intensive therapy and faster recovery.
Most persons with mental health problems can find adequate treatment.
Never hesitate to seek professional help if you or someone you know may be at risk for mental illness. Treatment is crucial to recovery from symptoms and the ability to maintain a healthy, active life.
