Mental Health Disorders

What is Depression?

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), often simply referred to as depression, is a serious mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities. It goes beyond temporary emotional responses to challenges in life and affects a person’s ability to function in their daily life. Symptoms may also include the following: changes in appetite or weight, sleep disturbances, lack of energy, feelings of worthlessness, and thoughts of death or suicide.

What are Eating Disorders?

Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions characterized by abnormal eating habits that can negatively impact a person’s physical and mental health. They typically involve an obsession with food, body weight, and shape, leading to dangerous eating behaviors. These disorders can significantly interfere with a person’s daily activities and may even be life-threatening. Common eating disorders include Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge Eating Disorder, each with its own unique symptoms.

What is Bipolar Disorder?

Bipolar disorder is also known as manic-depressive disorder; it is a mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings that include emotional highs (mania) and lows (depression). These periods of mood swings can affect sleep, energy, activity, judgment, behavior, and the ability to think clearly. It’s a lifelong condition, but with proper treatment and management, individuals with bipolar disorder can lead productive and fulfilling lives.

What is Substance Use Disorder?

Substance use disorder (SUD) is a medical condition characterized by an uncontrolled use of a substance despite its harmful consequences. Individuals with SUD have an intense focus on using a certain substance to the point where their cognitive functioning becomes impaired. Symptoms may include failed attempts to stop or control substance use, social isolation, issues with work or school, and physical health problems. It’s a complex, relapsing condition that requires comprehensive treatment involving medical, psychological, and social support.

What is Anxiety?

One’s definition of anxiety depends largely on their interpretation. As a feeling, anxiety is a common human emotion characterized by feelings of tension, worried thoughts, and physical changes such as increased heart rate. It is a natural response to stressful or perceived dangerous situations. However, when these feelings persist or become overwhelming, interfering with daily activities, it may signal an anxiety disorder.

This condition often requires intervention from mental health professionals for management and treatment; if left untreated, it can manifest in severe panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, or generalized anxiety disorder.

What is Obsessive Compulsive Disorder?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is a common, chronic, and long-lasting disorder where a person has uncontrollable, recurring thoughts and/or behaviors. Those who suffer from OCD feel the urge to repeat these thoughts or behaviors over and over. The obsessions often manifest as persistent, unwanted thoughts, images, or impulses; compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental acts that a person feels driven to perform in response to the obsession. The obsessions or compulsions cause significant distress. They are also time-consuming and interfere with a person’s normal routine, social activities, or relationships.

What is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder?

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition that’s triggered by a terrifying event — either experiencing it or witnessing it. Symptoms may include flashbacks, nightmares, severe anxiety, and uncontrollable thoughts about the event. These symptoms can interfere significantly with a person’s daily life, making it difficult for them to function normally.

At its core, PTSD is an anxiety disorder caused by a traumatic event. It can occur in individuals of any age and background, including service members and veterans who have experienced combat or other forms of trauma. If left untreated, it can lead to depression, suicide attempts, substance abuse, and other serious physical and mental health issues.