Mental health is as important as physical health. Although a lot of people still question the existence of mental health disorders, they do exist and they can be as bad as physical ailments, or worse in some cases. 

The sad part of the story is that most people are still unaware of mental health disorders, how they manifest, what they look like, and their possible treatment options.

In this article today, we’re going to talk about a few common psychological issues that you may experience at one point in life. I will also mention their symptoms and treatment options. Here you get a clear idea of 6 Common Mental Disorders List The central idea behind the topic is to create awareness, so continue reading to unhide the story: 

Common Mental Disorders List

1.Major Depressive Disorder 

According to the World Health Organization, around 264 people suffer from depression worldwide. It’s one of the most common mental health issues, and sadly, the figure is increasing day by day. 

It affects everyone, regardless of age and gender. Although the exact cause of depression is still unknown, a number of factors, including age and a poor lifestyle can contribute to the development of the disorder. 

Symptoms of Major Depressive Disorder 

• Loss of interest in everyday life activities
• Persistent feelings of sadness 
• Perpetual hopelessness and pessimism 
• Body aches and fatigue 
• Sleep and appetite disturbance 
• Suicidal thoughts or attempts 

Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder 

• Antidepressants and benzodiazepines 
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)  
• Guided imagery and music therapy 
• Lifestyle rehabilitation, including exercise and meditation 
• Herbal extracts and shatter to decrease cortisol

2.Generalized Anxiety Disorder 

Constant anxiety that persists for six months or more indicates the presence of generalized anxiety disorder. As mentioned by the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 2.7% of American adults have a generalized anxiety disorder. 

It is also stated that 1 in every 11 people suffer from generalized anxiety disorder once in their lifetime. It doesn’t seem problematic on the outside when in reality it can cause major distress in your life. 

Symptoms of Generalized Anxiety Disorder 

• Persistent anxiety and irritability 
• Shortness of breath 
• Excessive sweating 
• Sharing or trembling 
• Muscle tension and body aches 
• Palpitations, dizziness, and fatigue 

Treatment of Generalized Anxiety Disorder 

• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) 
• Benzodiazepines and pregabalin 
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) 
• Guided self-help 
• Meditation and yoga 
• Herbs and plants like chamomile and kava kava 

3.Functional Neurological Disorder

A functional neurological disorder, also known as conversion disorder, has become quite common these days. It’s one mental health issue that involves both psychiatry and neurology; therefore, it may take some time to be correctly diagnosed. 

The prevalence of this disorder is high among both males and females. It’s more likely to affect younger adults compared to children and elderly people. 

Symptoms of Functional Neurological Disorder 

• Pseudo seizures or apparent loss of consciousness 
• Episodes of trembling or shaking 
• Loss of balance 
• Abnormal behaviors like difficulty walking or tremors 
• Paralysis or weakness 
• Difficulty swallowing or speaking 

Treatment of Functional Neurological Disorder 

• Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medicines 
• Progressive muscle relaxation 
• Fostering positive relationships and environment in general 
• Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) 
• Lifestyle changes, such as meditation or yoga

4.Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder 

Obsessive-compulsive disorder, commonly known as OCD, is present pretty much everywhere. It’s all about repeated sensations, unusual obsessions, and repeated unwanted thoughts. 

As per behavioral sciences, OCD affects 1 in every 4 individuals at least once in their lifetime. However, the symptoms of the disorder may vary from person to person. It depends on your gender, age, and severity of the disorder. 

Symptoms of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder 

• Unwanted and repeated irrational thoughts 
• Horrific fear of losing control 
• Needing things in order
• Difficulty tolerating uncertainty 
• Fear of dirt or contamination 

Treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder 

• Antidepressants to balance brain chemicals 
• Anti-anxiety medications 
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy 
• Exposure and response prevention (ERP) 
• Deep brain stimulation (DBS)

5.Bipolar Disorder 

Bipolar disorder also called manic depression is known as a bridge between mood and psychotic disorders. According to the statistics, an estimate of 4.4% of Americans experiences bipolar disorder at one point in life.

Bipolar disorder manifests in three different episodes, mania, hypomania, and major depressive episode. The treatment of bipolar disorder depends on the episode of the disorder one is experiencing.  

Symptoms of Bipolar Disorder 

• Overwhelming joy, excitement, or happiness 
• Reduced inhibitions and need for sleep 
• The depressive episode that comes and goes 
• Racing thoughts and unusual talkativeness 
• Distractibility and abnormally hyperactive behavior 
• An exaggerated sense of well-being and euphoria 

Treatment of Bipolar Disorder 

• Antipsychotics and antidepressants 
• Mood stabilizers
• Interpersonal and social rhythm therapy (IPSRT) 
• Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) 
• Psychoeducation and family-focused therapy

6.Schizophrenia 

Another psychological disorder that is quite prevalent these days is schizophrenia. It’s a severe psychotic disorder that can turn your entire life upside down. It’s a disorder that drastically affects your sense of self and ability to think straight, and the worst part is that it requires lifelong treatment.

As mentioned in the World Health Organization fact sheet, nearly 20 million people from around the world have schizophrenia. Unfortunately, not even half of the people diagnosed with schizophrenia receive proper treatment. 

Symptoms of Schizophrenia  

• Abnormal motor behavior 
• Third-person auditory hallucinations 
• Disorganized thinking and speech 
• Delusions and withdrawal from friends and family 
• Depressed mood or irritability 
• Insomnia or hypersomnia 

Treatment of Schizophrenia 

• Typical and atypical antipsychotics 
• Mood stabilizers and anti-anxiety medicines 
• Electroconvulsive therapy 
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) 
• Psychoeducation and family therapy
• Lifestyle rehabilitation, including an active routine and healthy sleep cycle 

The Final Word… 

As a matter of fact, mental health issues have become quite common these days due to poor lifestyles and certain other activities like substance abuse. It is precisely why we’ve become more prone to suffering from one. 

The common mental disorders list mentioned above are spreading rapidly; hence, one must be careful in their day-to-day life and mindful of their mental health. Nevertheless, early diagnosis and immediate treatment can save you from lots of trouble. I wish you healing, everyone!