Types of mental disorders

There are more than 200 types of mental health disorders. Some of the most common types include:

• Anxiety disorders like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), social phobia and generalized anxiety disorders
• Mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder (manic depression)
• Disruptive behavior disorders like oppositional defiant disorder and conduct disorder
• Eating disorders likeanorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder
• Personality disorders like borderline, antisocial, and narcissistic personality disorder
• Psychotic disorders like schizophrenia
• Substance use disorders, addiction and alcohol use disorderRead this:Mental Health50 Tips to Overcome Mental Depression

Symptoms and Causes

Mental disorder symptoms

Mental health conditions can lead to a broad range of symptoms. These vary based on the type, but may include:

• Behavior that seems out of character
• Difficulty identifying reality (hallucinations or delusions)
• Excessive worry, fear or unusual thoughts
• Feeling disconnected from yourself or others
• Heightened sensitivity to light, sound or smell
• Loss of interest in usual activities
• mood swings or exaggerated emotions
• Performance issues at work or school, or relationship challenges
• Self-harm or thoughts of suicide

Mental disorders in children may affect how they think, feel and behave. You might notice that your child has:

• Difficulty sitting still or paying attention
• Excessive worry or fear, like not wanting to go to bed (nightmares)
• Decreased interest in their favorite activities
• Frequent tantrums defiance or aggressive behavior
• Problems at school or with friends

A person doesn’t have to have all of these symptoms to receive a diagnosis. But, experiencing a few may be a sign to talk to a healthcare provider.

Mental disorder causes

Many factors may contribute to the development of a psychiatric disorder. These could include:

• Genetics: You may inherit gens that increase your risk of certain mental health conditions. However, having these genes doesn’t guarantee you’ll develop the disorder.
• Brain chemistry and function: Your brain uses chemicals called neurotransmitters to help control your mood and behavior. Disruptions in how these chemicals work may lead to mental disorders.
• Life experiences and environment: Stressful experiences, especially early in life, may increase your risk. Also, factors like substance use, availability of social support and chronic medical conditions may play a role.

Risk factors

Anyone can develop a mental disorder. Your risk increases if you:

• Experienced abuse or trauma
• Experienced significant stress, like the loss of a loved one
• Feel isolated or lonely
• Had a traumatic brain injury Had exposure to viruses, toxic chemicals or substances (like alcohol) before birth
• Have a biological family history of the condition
• Have a chemical imbalance in your brain
• Have a chronic or serious medical condition (like pain or cancer)
• Use addictive substance