- Mental health disorders are psychological conditions that involve changes in thinking, mood, or behavior associated with distress.
- Symptoms of mental health disorders can affect all areas of life and vary in severity from person to person.
- Educating oneself about mental health disorders is the first step toward offering support and understanding.
- Offering a listening ear and creating a safe space to talk are also important ways to provide support.
Mental health disorders can profoundly affect those who suffer from them and everyone around them. It’s estimated that about one in five Americans have a disorder, that’s why it’s essential to be aware of the signs and symptoms of mental health disorders, both in yourself and those close to you, so that you can help create an environment where individuals feel comfortable talking about their mental health issues and getting the assistance they need. Here’s a closer look at what a mental disorder is, how it affects people, and what steps can be taken to support those suffering.
What Is A Mental Disorder?
Mental disorders are psychological conditions that involve changes in thinking, mood, or behavior associated with distress or impaired functioning. These conditions encompass various diagnoses, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder), addiction, and more. Each condition has unique symptoms that vary in severity from person to person.
How Mental Disorders Affect People
Mental disorders can impact all areas of life, including implications and physical and emotional health. For example, someone with depression may experience decreased energy levels which could lead to difficulties completing daily tasks like going to work or taking care of basic needs such as eating or showering.
Someone with obsessive-compulsive disorder may become overwhelmed by intrusive thoughts or compulsions that interfere with their ability to focus or complete tasks. In addition, anxiety can cause physical symptoms such as increased heart rate or difficulty sleeping, which can be disruptive for the individual,l suffering from the condition of those around them.
Lastly, addictions can be physically and emotionally dangerous as individuals struggle to control their cravings for the substance or behavior, causing them harm.
What Can Be Done To Help?
The most important thing you can do is be aware of the signs and symptoms of mental health disorders so that you can recognize if someone is struggling and offer your support if needed. In addition, if you notice any changes in behavior or mood, it’s important to talk openly with the person about what they are experiencing so they don’t feel alone. Finally, here are other ways you and your community can do to help these people:
Educate Yourself
The first step in helping someone with a mental disorder is educating yourself about the illness. It is essential to understand the symptoms of the disorder so that you can recognize signs or changes in behavior.
You should also be aware of what treatments are available so that you can help your loved one find assistance if needed. Knowing as much as possible about the disorder will allow you to be better prepared to offer support.
Support Group
The worst thing that a person with a disorder can feel is that they’re alone. Loneliness can lead to more depression and other mental health issues, so providing support is essential. Have conversations, create a safe space for those who need to talk and share their feelings, or check in with them regularly.
If you can’t meet physically with each other, it might be wise to create an app for them. A robust community app can connect those dealing with mental disorders from anywhere. That way, they can get advice and coaching from others in similar situations.
Listen and Connect
It is vital to provide a listening ear for those living with a mental disorder. Listen without judgment and try to empathize with their feelings and experiences. Try not to give advice unless asked for; instead, focus on showing understanding by validating their feelings and offering encouragement. Connection is vital when supporting someone with a mental disorder; they need to know they have people who care about them and will listen without judgment.
Professional Help
It’s also essential to support those struggling by helping them find professional help. Mental health professionals are incredible resources that can provide education, treatment, and other forms of assistance. If you or someone close to you is struggling, reach out to a licensed therapist for help.
A better understanding of mental health disorders is essential for everyone because it helps us recognize when someone might need help and provides us with the tools to support them through difficult times. Whether offering encouragement or referring someone to professional service when necessary, being aware of our mental well-being and others will go a long way toward creating a healthier society for everyone involved.
