Common Mental Health Disorders

Millions of people worldwide suffer from mental disorders and are in need of the treatment provided by licensed psychologists. Unfortunately many of these people go without help for years or even their whole lives for a variety of reasons.  Some people cannot afford care, while others do not have access to the type of care they need such as psychotherapy. 

Another barrier to treatment is the stigma attached to going to therapy. But in reality psychological healing is tantamount to alleviating the symptoms of various mental conditions.  It is estimated that over half of the American population will suffer from some form of mental illness during their lives.

Understanding the diverse categories of disorders will allow psychologists to facilitate treatment for patients suffering from one or even several mental illnesses.  

Mood Disorders:

As the second most common reason for mental problems, mood disorders affect nearly 10 percent of adults every year and are most apparent in the form of depression. The World Health Organization estimates that major depression will cause the majority of mental and physical health problems in people by the year 2020. Women are often more susceptible to depression, as are people living in third world countries.  Bipolar disorder is also a mood disorder as it is characterized by violent mood swings, trouble sleeping, irritability and impulse control. 

Relationship and Family Problems

Having relationships with others, especially family, can be a huge source of mental distress for many people.  Serious problems often occur in marriages, couples, families and a variety of partnerships. Communication problems are usually at the root of these kinds of issues, and psychologists can use a variety of techniques to open up discussion between members. 

Anxiety Disorders

According to the National Institute of Health, anxiety disorders are the most common mental disorder affecting around 29 percent of adults at some point during their lives. Included among anxiety disorders are panic disorder, which is defined by extreme fear and anxiety. Phobias are also under the anxiety disorder spectrum, as is obsessive-compulsive disorder. The most common type of anxiety disorder is General Anxiety Disorder (GAD).

Substance Abuse Disorders

A large percent of the population indulges in alcohol and drug use, but many people take it too far and become victim to substance abuse.  An occasional drink or weekend party does not constitute a substance abuse disorder, but when using recreational substances interferes with daily life, then a person may have a problem.

Look for future posts concerning the different categories of mental disorders and the available treatments.

Helping Psychology is brought to you by Argosy University. Drawing upon our more than 30-year history of granting degrees in professional psychology, Argosy University has developed a curriculum that focuses on interpersonal skills and practical experience alongside academic learning. Because getting a degree is one thing. Succeeding, quite another.