A mental disorder is typically characterized by a combination of abnormal thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and interactions with others. While the specific symptoms vary depending on the type of mental disorder, there are some general symptoms that are common to many mental disorders.
1. Abnormal thoughts or beliefs: People with mental disorders may have distorted or irrational thinking patterns. They may hold false beliefs (delusions) about themselves or the world around them (psychosis). They may also have difficulty thinking clearly or concentrating.
2. Abnormal emotions: People with mental disorders may experience intense and inappropriate emotions (mood swings), such as fear, anger, sadness, or happiness. They may also feel numb and disconnected from their emotions (depression).
3. Abnormal behaviors: People with mental disorders may exhibit unusual or self-destructive behaviors (impulsivity). They may engage in risky behaviors without considering the consequences (recklessness). They may also withdraw from friends and activities they once enjoyed (isolation).
4. Interactions with others: People with mental disorders often have difficulty relating to others in a healthy way. They may be withdrawn and prefer to be alone (avoidant personality disorder). Or they might be overly clingy and dependent on others for.
Feeling sad or down
Symptoms of a Mental Disorder
It is estimated that one in four adults suffer from a mental disorder in any given year. This means that millions of people are affected by mental illness at any given time. While there are many different types of mental disorders, there are some general symptoms that are common to most disorders.
If you are feeling sad or down for more than a couple of weeks, this could be a sign of depression, which is a type of mental disorder. Depression can cause you to lose interest in activities you once enjoyed, feel hopeless and helpless, have trouble sleeping, and may even lead to thoughts of suicide. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to seek help from a mental health professional.
Anxiety disorders are another type of mental disorder that can cause significant distress. People with anxiety disorders often feel extremely anxious or nervous about everyday situations such as going to work or school, driving, or even leaving the house. This can lead to avoidance behaviors as well as physical symptoms such as sweating and an increased heart rate. If you think you might be suffering from an anxiety disorder, it is important to seek professional help so that you can learn how to manage your symptoms and live a full life despite your fears.
Confused thinking or reduced ability to concentrate
In severe cases, people with mental disorders may be unable to care for themselves or function in society. They may be unaware of their surroundings and unable to communicate with others.
Withdrawal from friends and activities
It’s normal to feel down or blue from time to time, but if you’re withdrawn from friends and activities that you used to enjoy, it could be a sign of a mental disorder. Other symptoms may include changes in appetite, sleep patterns, and energy levels; feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, or excessive guilt; difficulty concentrating; and thoughts of death or suicide. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to seek professional help.
Significant tiredness, low energy or problems sleeping
Mental disorders can cause a wide range of symptoms that can vary significantly in severity. In general, however, mental disorders tend to cause significant tiredness, low energy or problems sleeping. This can make it difficult to function normally in everyday life and may lead to social withdrawal and isolation. Mental disorders may also cause changes in mood, thinking and behaviour. For example, someone with a mental disorder may become very withdrawn and stop talking to people altogether. Alternatively, they may become extremely agitated and aggressive. Changes in thinking can include problems with concentration, memory and decision-making. Behavioural changes can include self-harm, risky behaviour or substance abuse.