Bipolar disorder is a mental illness that is characterized by extreme changes in mood, energy, and activity levels. People with bipolar disorder can experience periods of extremely high energy and happiness (mania) or low energy and sadness (depression). These periods can last for days, weeks, or months at a time.
There is no single cause of bipolar disorder, but it is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some research suggests that there may be a link between bipolar disorder and brain damage. This theory is based on the fact that people with bipolar disorder often have abnormalities in their brain structure and function.
However, it is important to note that not all people with bipolar disorder will experience brain damage. Additionally, the extent of brain damage may vary from person to person. Some individuals may only have minor changes in their brains while others may have more significant abnormalities.
At this time, there is no cure for bipolar disorder but it can be managed with medication and therapy. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with this condition, it’s important to seek professional help in order to receive the best possible treatment.
Anxiety Disorders. The most common category of mental health disorders in America impacts approximately 40 million adults 18 and older
Anxiety disorders are the most common category of mental health disorders in America, impacting approximately 40 million adults 18 and older. Anxiety disorders include panic disorder, agoraphobia, social anxiety disorder (SAD), specific phobias, and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Symptoms of an anxiety disorder can include feeling nervous or tense, having difficulty sleeping, sweating, rapid heartbeat, and dizziness.
Panic disorder is characterized by recurrent unexpected panic attacks. A panic attack is a period of intense fear or discomfort that peaks within minutes. During a panic attack someone may experience chest pain, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, or feel like they are going to faint or die. Panic attacks can occur unexpectedly or be brought on by a trigger such as exposure to heights or flying. People with panic disorder often live in fear of having another attack and may avoid places where they have had previous attacks or where they think an attack could happen such as driving on bridges. Panic disorder affects about 6 million American adults each year.
Agoraphobia is when someone experiences intense fear and anxiety about being in situations where escape might be difficult in the event that they have a panic attack or feel like they are going to faint. People with agoraphobia often avoid leaving their homes or being in crowds. Agoraphobia affects about 3 million American adults each year.
Social anxiety disorder (SAD) is when someone experiences intense fear and anxiety about social situations such as meeting new people, public speaking, and being around others. They worry that they will be judged harshly, embarrassed, or humiliated. SAD affects 15 million American adults each year.
Psychotic Disorders
There are several different types of psychotic disorders, including schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, delusional disorder, brief reactive psychosis, and substance-induced psychosis. Although each type of disorder has its own unique symptoms, all psychotic disorders share some common features.
Psychotic disorders can be extremely debilitating. Individuals with these conditions often have difficulty keeping a job or maintaining relationships. Some people with psychotic disorders may be violent or pose a threat to themselves or others. However, with treatment and support from family and friends, many people with psychotic disorders can lead productive lives.
Eating disorders
There are three main types of eating disorders: anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder. Anorexia nervosa is characterized by self-starvation and excessive weight loss. Bulimia nervosa is characterized by recurrent episodes of binge-eating followed by purging (self-induced vomiting or the use of laxatives). Binge-eating disorder is characterized by recurrent episodes of binge-eating without purging.
Eating disorders can have severe physical consequences, including malnutrition, electrolyte imbalances, dehydration, low blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, heart failure, kidney failure, and death. People with eating disorders also often experience psychological distress, such as anxiety, depression, mood swings, irritability, and confusion.
Eating disorders are thought to be caused by a combination of biological factors (e.g., genetic predisposition), psychological factors (e.g., low self esteem), and sociocultural factors (e.g., peer pressure). Treatment for eating disorders typically involves a combination of psychotherapy, nutrition counseling, and medication management.