Dr. Sneha J. Karmani discusses prevalent categories of mental illness in today’s context.
Mental health disorders affect nearly everyone to some degree, often leading individuals to delay seeking help for years. Whether experiencing symptoms yourself or observing them in a loved one, consulting a doctor, counselor, or therapist is crucial. Mental illness encompasses conditions that disrupt a person’s thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, impacting their emotional, psychological, and social well-being. Maintaining mental health is vital throughout life, from childhood to old age.
Dr. Sneha J. Karmani, Consultant Psychiatrist at Aditya Birla Memorial Hospital, sheds light on some common mental illnesses:
- Schizophrenia/Psychotic Disorders
These disorders alter how individuals perceive, feel, and act, typically emerging in late teens or early adulthood. Schizophrenia involves experiencing auditory or visual hallucinations, as well as holding delusional beliefs. Long-term management often involves medication and psychosocial support.
- Mood Disorders
Also known as affective disorders, these conditions can affect individuals of any age group. Depression, dysthymia (chronic, low-grade depression), and bipolar disorder (characterized by episodes of depression and mania) are common examples. Diagnosing mood disorders in children can be challenging due to their limited ability to articulate their feelings.
- Anxiety Disorders
While it’s normal to feel anxious in certain situations, anxiety disorders involve excessive, uncontrollable fear that interferes with daily functioning. Treatment typically includes therapy and medication to manage symptoms.
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
PTSD can develop after experiencing a traumatic event, such as assault. Individuals with PTSD often experience intrusive thoughts and memories of the event, along with emotional numbness. However, not everyone who experiences trauma develops PTSD.
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
People with OCD are plagued by intrusive thoughts or anxieties, leading them to perform rituals or routines to alleviate their distress. These obsessions and compulsions can significantly disrupt daily life.
Dr. Karmani emphasizes the importance of understanding mental health issues, seeking proper evaluation, and pursuing appropriate treatment. This approach enables individuals to manage their conditions effectively and make healthy choices for their mental well-being.