Cognitive disorders affect mental functioning, including memory, learning, decision-making, and perception. They can result from injury, illness, or degenerative conditions like dementia, and treatment may involve medication and therapy.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a prevalent and chronic mental health condition characterized by recurrent obsessive thoughts, referred to as ruminations, and compulsive behaviors. These symptoms can significantly disrupt daily life and cause distress.
The cause of schizophrenia remains uncertain, but it's believed to result from a mix of genetics, environment, and changes in brain chemistry and structure. Schizophrenia is marked by thoughts or experiences detached from reality, disorganized speech or behavior, and reduced engagement in daily life.
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Mental illness, also known as mental health disorders, refers to a range of mental health conditions — disorders that affect your thinking, mood and behavior. [2]
The primary types of mental illness include autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), bipolar disorder, major depression, and schizophrenia. [1]
Medical professionals diagnose mental health conditions by assessing your symptoms and history. They commonly utilize the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), for this purpose. [3]
Your primary care physician or family doctor could be the initial person you turn to for discussions regarding your mental health issues. [4]
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Resources
↓- World Health Organization. (2022, June 8). Mental disorders. World Health Organization; World Health Organization.
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mental-disorders - American Psychiatric Association. (2022). What is mental illness? American Psychiatric Association.
https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/what-is-mental-illness - National Alliance on Mental Illness. (2020). Your Diagnosis | NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness. Nami.org.
https://www.nami.org/Your-Journey/Individuals-with-Mental-Illness/Understanding-Your-Diagnosis - Mental Health Foundation. (2023). Get help. www.mentalhealth.org.uk.
https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/get-help