Mental Health
Understanding Mental Well-being
Mental health shapes how a person thinks, feels, and acts each day. Good mental health helps people handle life’s ups and downs, keep relationships strong, and manage feelings in a healthy way. People with positive mental health usually cope with stress, work well in daily tasks, and connect with friends and family.
When mental well-being declines, people may struggle at school, work, or home, and have trouble dealing with change. What is considered “normal” behavior or feeling can change across cultures. Something common in one community may be a concern in another. Cultural beliefs play a big role in how mental health is viewed and treated.
How Mental Health Issues Are Classified
Health professionals use certain reference books to identify mental health issues. Two major guides are the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) and the International Classification of Diseases (ICD). These guides explain how long symptoms must last and how much they interfere with life. Common disorders described in the DSM and ICD:
- Anxiety Disorders (such as social anxiety and panic attacks)
- Depression (including lasting sadness, hopelessness)
- Eating Disorders (like anorexia or bulimia)
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
- Schizophrenia (issues with perception, thinking, hearing voices)
The DSM and ICD list patterns for each condition, including symptoms, their severity, and how much a person’s life is affected. Some mental health problems, like mood swings or withdrawal, may need to be present for several weeks before a diagnosis. Insurance companies, mental health services, and health care providers use these manuals to decide on diagnosis and care. Below is a summary table of how mental health conditions are typically classified:
| Disorder | Example Signs | Usual Criteria for Diagnosis |
|---|---|---|
| Anxiety | Ongoing worry, fear | Symptoms last for weeks, impact daily life |
| Depression | Lasting sadness, hopelessness | Loss of interest in activities, mood changes |
| Eating Disorders | Restriction, bingeing | Disrupted eating habits, concern over weight |
| PTSD | Flashbacks, avoidance | Linked to trauma, affects sleep and mood |
| Schizophrenia | Hallucinations, confusion | Disorganized thinking, significant life impact |
How Professionals Identify Mental Health Disorders
A mental health professional like a psychiatrist, psychologist, or licensed counselor usually makes a diagnosis. Sometimes, a family doctor or a primary care provider notices concerns first and suggests a more in-depth assessment.
Steps in Diagnosis
- Health and Family History:
- Physical illnesses.
- Mental health conditions in the family.
- Physical and Mental Assessment:
- Medical exams to rule out other causes.
- Questions about current thoughts, behaviors, and feelings.
- Life Events and Changes:
- Recent trauma, loss, or major life changes.
- Changes in relationships or jobs.
- Self-report and Screening Tools:
- Completing questionnaires or tests about mood, behavior, and lifestyle.
- Substance Use Review:
- Alcohol, smoking, or drug use—past and present.
- Observation by Others:
- Input from family or friends about changes they’ve noticed.
- Sometimes, interviews with people close to the individual.
Mental health assessment checklists look at areas such as mood swings, sleep patterns, eating habits, withdrawal from friends, or changes in daily performance. These tools help the mental health professional form a complete view before making a diagnosis.
Signs That Evaluation or Care Is Needed
Some changes in behavior or mood are temporary, but certain patterns suggest it’s time to seek help. Early support can often prevent bigger problems. Key warning signs that may show a need for an evaluation:
- Major changes in personality, eating, or sleeping habits.
- Struggling to deal with problems, stress, or daily tasks.
- Distancing from social activities and relationships.
- Strong beliefs or thoughts that don’t match reality.
- Ongoing sadness, helplessness, or hopelessness.
- Extreme fear, worry, or panic.
- Ideas, talk, or plans about suicide or harming others.
- Overuse of alcohol, smoking, or drugs.
- Sudden mood swings or unstable emotions.
- Rage, aggression, or violent behavior.
If someone talks about suicide, self-harm, or harming others, or shows violent behavior, get immediate help. This can include calling the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline or emergency services.
Table: Possible Signs of Mental Health Issues
| Warning Sign | Example |
|---|---|
| Changes in eating/sleep patterns | Insomnia, loss of appetite |
| Withdrawal from usual activities | Stopping hobbies, missing school |
| Extreme emotional responses | Sudden anger, panic attacks |
| Trouble thinking clearly | Confusion, forgetfulness |
| Lasting sadness or hopelessness | Crying often, feeling empty |
| Mention of suicide or self-harm | Talking about wanting to die |
| Aggressive or reckless actions | Violence, unsafe driving |
Seeking help is not a sign of weakness. People may feel embarrassed, scared, or think that symptoms are “just life.” Mental health conditions are common and can affect anyone. Support from mental health professionals, such as therapists, counselors, psychiatrists, or community mental health services, can help.
Steps to Get Help
- Talk with someone you trust. This could be a family member, friend, or teacher.
- Contact your health care provider or local mental health services.
- Look for a mental health professional who understands your background or community. Finding someone who knows your culture can improve care and comfort.
- Use hotlines or online support if you need urgent help or information.
Early help often means easier, more successful treatment. With the right support, most people can manage mental health conditions and improve their quality of life.
