MENTAL DISORDERS

Mental disorders are defined as conditions that create distress and affect a person’s ability to function. These conditions affect how people behave and think. They can also impact how people are able to function at home, work, school, relationships, and other important life domains. A mental disorder is often used interchangeably with the terms psychological disorder, psychiatric disorder, and mental illness. The “official” term is mental disorder. A mental disorder is a syndrome that causes significant disturbance in behavior, emotion, and cognition.

The mental disorders are also usually accompanied by significant distress that affects a person's work, school, and social relationships. If a disorder is seen as something that lies outside of the statistical norm, then people who are considered exceptionally talented or gifted in a particular area would also be regarded as abnormal. So rather than focusing on actions that are considered outside of the norm statistically speaking, psychologists tend to concentrate on the results of those behaviors. The disorder is characterized by clinically significant disturbances in an individual’s cognition, emotional regulation, or behavior.

Behaviors that are considered maladaptive, cause significant personal distress, and interrupt daily functioning are more likely to be labeled as disorders. Today, many mental health professionals agree that mental disorders are characterized by both personal distress and impairment in multiple areas of life. Research also explores how many people are impacted by such disorders every year. The diagnostic manual further suggests that behaviors often considered at odds with social norms are not considered disorders unless these actions are the result of some dysfunction.

The first problem is that a mental health professional must decide exactly how to define a "disorder." How do you determine if there is something psychologically wrong or unhealthy about a person? How do you decide what is normal and what is abnormal? Global prevalence statistics suggest that anxiety disorders, mood disorders, alcohol use disorders, and substance use disorders are among the most common types of mental health conditions experienced by people worldwide. Statistics suggest that mental disorders are quite common and affect people of all backgrounds. Anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders are among the most common conditions that people experience.

Symptoms of Mental Disorders

The specific symptoms a person might experience depend on the nature of the mental health condition. Some of the symptoms that a person with a mental disorder might experience include:

• Anxiety
• Changes in appetite
• Changes in behavior
• Changes in mood
• Changes in sex drive
• Delusions, hallucinations, or other difficulties perceiving reality
• Depression or feelings of sadness
• Difficulty sleeping
• Drug or alcohol use
• Fatigue or low energy
• Irritability
• Loss of interest
• Social withdrawal or isolation
• Trouble concentrating
• Suicidal thoughts or self-harm

The Most Common Mental Disorders

While there are numerous mental health disorders, some are more common than others. There is no way to know for certain if a person will develop a mental health condition in their lifetime, but some factors may put them at greater risk. Family history of mental health disorders, childhood trauma, and social influences may increase vulnerability. Some of the most common mental health disorders include:

1. Depression

Depression is characterized by general feelings of sadness, lack of interest in activities once enjoyed, exhaustion, inability to concentrate, and changes in sleeping and eating patterns. A number of factors can play a role in its development. Family history, life events, medical conditions, and side effects of medications can all cause symptoms to develop.

Depression is a long-lasting condition with varying severity. It can severely impact a person’s relationships, employment, and quality of life. In its worst state, it can cause a person to struggle with suicidal thoughts or tendencies, making it imperative to treat as soon as possible. With therapy, medication, and other forms of counseling, symptoms of depression can become more manageable.

2. Anxiety

Anxiety disorders are quite common, but a surprising number of people do not seek treatment. Anxiety disorders can manifest as phobias, compulsions, and panic attacks. They may develop over time due to life experiences or changes in brain chemistry.

Anxiety is highly treatable, and there are numerous forms of therapy available. In some cases, medications may be used to manage symptoms and prevent them from completely controlling a person’s life.

3. Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is characterized by manic and depressive episodes. Each person’s experience is different, and some may experience one end of the spectrum more frequently than the other. In manic episodes, a person is hyperactive, irritable, and has little desire to sleep. In depressive episodes, they may feel lethargic, excessively sad, and hopeless.

Bipolar disorder can have a genetic component, but it can also develop as a result of brain chemistry changes and environmental factors. Its mood swings can be extreme and may disrupt work and relationships. Treatment often includes medication to regulate mood and counseling to help individuals cope more effectively.

4. Substance Use Disorders

Substance use disorders often coexist with other mental health conditions. In some cases, substance use develops as an attempt to self-medicate. In others, prolonged substance abuse may trigger a mental health disorder. Regardless of origin, substance use disorders profoundly impact mental health and overall well-being.

These disorders require extensive treatment, and co-occurring conditions must be treated simultaneously. Dual-diagnostic treatment reduces the risk of relapse and improves recovery outcomes. Treating one without the other often leads to worsened symptoms and poor quality of life.

5. Eating Disorders

Eating disorders are complex conditions that often result from biological and psychological factors. Behaviors may include dieting, bingeing and purging, or skipping meals altogether. Many eating disorders are rooted in social pressures, anxiety, depression, or body dysmorphia.

Treatment usually requires addressing underlying conditions alongside therapy, counseling, and nutritional planning to strengthen both physical and mental health.

6. Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia causes hallucinations, delusions, or lack of emotional expression. People with this disorder often struggle to relate to others, make decisions, manage emotions, and think clearly.

It is a serious mental health disorder requiring lifelong care. Treatment typically includes medications, therapy, counseling, and specialized support. While there is no cure, treatment allows people with schizophrenia to lead productive lives.

7. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

OCD involves repetitive, irrational, and excessive urges that interfere with daily life. It is often linked to anxiety. Treatments include exposure therapy, talk therapy, and sometimes medication.

8. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)

ADHD is commonly diagnosed in adolescents and is characterized by impulsiveness, short attention span, and hyperactivity. Early treatment with therapy and medication can improve long-term outcomes.

9. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

PTSD often develops after traumatic events such as sexual assault, violence, accidents, natural disasters, or war. Symptoms include intrusive memories, nightmares, and avoidant behaviors.

Treatment may involve therapy, medication, or facing fears directly. While not always curable, proper treatment can make life more manageable.

10. Dementia

Dementia is increasingly common as people live longer. It is a progressive disorder that affects memory, comprehension, language, and emotional regulation. There is currently no cure, though various diseases can contribute to its development.

How Are Mental Disorders Diagnosed?

Classification and diagnosis are important for both providers and clients. While no single definition exists, criteria have been developed. Diagnosis is made by trained professionals; such as doctors or mental health specialists.

A diagnosis involves reviewing medical history and assessing symptoms’ nature, duration, and severity. While no medical tests can directly diagnose mental disorders, physical exams and lab tests may rule out other conditions.

Purpose of Getting a Diagnosis

Some avoid diagnosis due to fear of stigma, but diagnosis is essential for effective treatment. It is not about labeling but about finding solutions, treatments, and guidance.

Once diagnosed, providers can recommend therapies and treatments to help patients cope more effectively and function better in daily life.

Psychotherapy

There are many types of psychotherapy effective for mental disorders. One common approach is cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), which focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors.

Medications

Antidepressants, anxiolytics, antipsychotics, and other medications can also help. These work by altering brain chemistry to relieve symptoms. Medications can have side effects and should always be used as prescribed.

Coping With Mental Disorder

Beyond treatment, additional strategies may help:

• Lifestyle changes: Regular physical exercise is associated with reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression.
• Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM): Practices such as acupuncture, yoga, meditation, mindfulness, and herbal supplements may help.
• Social support: Maintaining relationships can improve outcomes and provide necessary support.

Religion And Mental Disorder

Evidence suggests that religious involvement is generally conducive to better mental health. Patients with psychiatric disorders frequently use religion to cope with distress. Religious attendance has been associated with decreased suicide attempts in both the general population and those with mental illness, independent of social support.

A few studies specifically address spirituality and depression. Some suggest spirituality may increase depression, while others show a negative association, particularly among patients with cancer. Religion may both increase anxiety (through guilt and fear) and provide solace.

Studies on anxiety and religion have produced mixed results. Poor sampling, bias, and limited measures may explain inconsistencies. Some studies link religiosity to traits like obsessional personality but not to actual obsessional symptoms. Religion may encourage moral scrupulousness but not pathological obsession.

Islam And Mental Disorder

Islam plays an important role in helping Muslims cope with negative life events. It promotes prevention and treatment of depression by encouraging positive thoughts, behaviors, and seeking professional help when needed. Islam provides a moral code and coping strategies to manage stress.

Islam teaches harmony and balance:

 “Seek the life to come by means of what God granted you, but do not neglect your rightful share in this world. Do good to others as God has done good to you. Do not seek to spread corruption in the land, for God does not love those who do this.”

Studies on spiritually modified cognitive therapy for Muslims show faster improvement compared to standard therapy. Islamic psychotherapy integrates Quranic metaphors, the Prophet’s (PBUM) teachings, and the stories of his companions into evidence-based approaches. This blending provides culturally and spiritually sensitive care that improves outcomes for Muslim patients.