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Suffering and experiencing mental illness can be a challenging and overwhelming experience. Mental illness affects individuals in various ways, and symptoms can range from mild to severe. People with mental illness may feel isolated, disconnected from others, and struggle to connect with friends and family. Overwhelming emotions such as anxiety, depression, and anger can be common experiences, making it difficult to cope with daily life. Additionally, mental illness can impact a person's motivation, leading to losing interest in activities and difficulty achieving goals. Confusion and difficulty concentrating can also occur, making it challenging to focus on tasks or make decisions. Unfortunately, stigma and shame often surround mental illness, causing individuals to feel embarrassed or ashamed of their condition. Seeking support from a mental health professional, building a support system, and practising self-care can help individuals manage their mental health and work towards recovery.
One in five persons globally has suffered from a mental disease at some point in their life.
Mental illness accounts for 32% of years spent with a handicap and is the most common cause of impairment worldwide.
Only 44% of adults with diagnosable mental illnesses receive treatment.
90% of persons who die by suicide have an underlying mental disorder, making suicide the second most common cause of death for those between the ages of 15 and 29 throughout the world.
With over 264 million sufferers worldwide, depression is the primary factor in both male and female impairment.
These figures demonstrate the need for a greater understanding of mental illness, access to care, and support for people who are afflicted by it.
Symptoms
Recognising the symptoms of mental illness can be challenging since symptoms might change based on the condition's kind and intensity. However, some typical signs of the mental disorder include:
Mood changes: Symptoms may include persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, anxiety, irritability, or anger.
Changes in behaviour: This may include withdrawing from social situations, avoiding activities that were once enjoyable, changes in sleep and appetite patterns, increased substance use, or engaging in risky behaviour.
Changes in thinking: Symptoms may include difficulty concentrating, racing thoughts, disorganised thinking, or difficulty making decisions.
Physical symptoms: Mental illness can also cause physical symptoms, such as headaches, stomachaches, and fatigue.
Psychotic symptoms: In extreme circumstances, psychotic symptoms, including hallucinations or delusions, may accompany the mental disease.
It is essential to seek professional assistance if you believe that you, someone you know, or both may suffer from a mental illness. A mental health professional can provide an accurate diagnosis and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Importance of early intervention in mental illness.
Intervention early during someone's mental illness is crucial for several reasons. First, early mental intervention can lead to better treatment outcomes. The earlier a person receives a diagnosis and treatment, the greater the likelihood of a full recovery or the effective management of symptoms. Early intervention can also prevent the condition from worsening, leading to less severe symptoms and less significant impairment in daily life.
Second, early intervention can help prevent the development of additional mental health conditions. Mental illnesses often co-occur with other mental health conditions, such as substance abuse, and early intervention can help prevent the development of additional conditions. Third, early intervention can reduce the risk of self-harm and suicide. Mental illness can increase the risk of self-harm and suicide, and early intervention can help prevent these outcomes by providing individuals with the support and resources they need to manage their symptoms and receive appropriate treatment.
Overall, intervening early during someone's mental illness can improve treatment outcomes, prevent the development of additional conditions, and reduce the risk of self-harm and suicide.
Is it important to diagnose mental illness?
Diagnosis of mental illness is the process of identifying and classifying a mental health condition based on an individual's symptoms, medical history, and other relevant information. The diagnostic process typically involves an initial assessment, diagnostic interview, reference to diagnostic criteria such as the DSM-5 or ICD-11, and additional testing if necessary. An accurate diagnosis is crucial for developing an appropriate treatment plan, improving outcomes, accessing resources and support, and improving communication between individuals and healthcare professionals. Seeking professional help is essential for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
Diagnosing mental illness is essential for several reasons:
Accurate treatment: Diagnosing mental illness allows healthcare professionals to develop a precise treatment plan tailored to the individual's specific symptoms and needs. Medication, psychotherapy, and other evidence-based therapies demonstrated to treat mental health problems successfully might fall under this category.
Improved outcomes: With an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment, individuals are likelier to experience improved outcomes, such as reduced symptoms and increased functionality.
Validation: A diagnosis can provide validation for individuals who have been struggling with mental health symptoms, helping them understand and come to terms with their experiences.
Access to resources: A diagnosis can also provide access to resources and support services, such as support groups, peer counselling, and community-based services, which can be critical in the recovery process.
Better communication: An accurate diagnosis can improve communication between healthcare professionals, individuals, and their families, leading to a more coordinated and effective treatment approach.
Written By:
Hitesh Chichda