Winford Chang
Mental health is a critical part of any individual’s well-being. Even though it’s important, many people hold a certain stigma over it. According to WHO (World Health Organization), one in four people will be affected by mental health or neurological disorders throughout their lifetime. Right now more than 450 million people suffer from these mental health conditions making it one of the leading causes of ill-health and disabilities worldwide.
Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety disorders are among the most prevalent mental issues around the world. In the United States alone it affects more than 40 million adults. These disorders can manifest as generalized anxiety disorder, panic attacks, and social anxiety. Each one of these is characterized by a persistent and excessive worry that could disrupt daily functioning.
Mood Disorders
Mood disorders include depression and bipolar disorder. Worldwide depression affects more than 230 million people manifesting in prolonged sadness and apathy. Bipolar disorder is characterized by dramatic shifts in mood energy and activity levels.
Personality Disorders
Personality disorders are characterized by enduring maladaptive patterns of behavior, cognition, and inner experience. Notable examples include borderline personality disorder and narcissistic personality disorder, which significantly impact relationships and daily activities.
Psychotic Disorders.
Schizophrenia is a prime example of a psychotic disorder, marked by distortions in thinking, perception, emotions, language, sense of self, and behavior. It affects about 1% of the population and usually first appears in the late teen years.
Causes
Mental health disorders arise from a multitude of factors. Genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological.
Being able to offer a listening ear to those who have these issues and showing empathy is vital when supporting those struggling with mental health disorders. It is important to encourage professional help and provide additional resources that could prove useful.
