Meaning of Mental Illness
According to the Persons with Disabilities (P W D) Act, 1995, “Mental Illness” refers to any mental disorder excluding mental retardation. In modern terminology, mental retardation is more appropriately referred to as intellectual disability, and it is treated as a distinct category of disability under the Act.
Understanding Mental Illness
Mental Illness encompasses a wide range of mental health conditions that affect mood, thinking, and behavior. These include disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, and anxiety, among others. Each condition presents with its own set of symptoms, and the severity can vary from person to person.
Common Types of Mental Illness
1. Anxiety Disorders
Typically emerge during adolescence but can begin at any age. Individuals experience intense, excessive worry, often accompanied by physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat and restlessness.
2. Depression
Characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or irritability. Depression can lead to a lack of motivation and difficulty performing daily tasks. It often coexists with anxiety and is the most prevalent mental health disorder.
3. Bipolar Disorder
Previously called manic depression, this disorder involves alternating periods of extreme mood elevation (mania) and depression.
4. Psychosis
Can occur on its own or as a symptom of other mental illnesses such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or severe depression. It includes delusions, hallucinations, and a disconnection from reality.
5. Schizophrenia
A chronic condition marked by distorted perceptions, disorganized thinking, and social withdrawal.
6. Personality Disorders
Usually begin in adolescence or early adulthood. People with these disorders have ongoing difficulties with emotions, identity, behavior, and relationships.
7. Borderline Personality Disorder
Borderline Disorder in particular, affects 2–5% of the population and often involves self-harm or suicidal behavior.
8. Eating Disorders:
More than just issues with food, they stem from low self-esteem, societal pressures, and control struggles. They affect about 10% of people and can severely impact daily functioning.
Causes of Mental Illness
Mental illness typically results from a combination of
Biological Factors:
Genetics, brain chemistry imbalances, hormonal changes, physical illness or injury, and prenatal exposure to toxins.
Psychological Factors:
Trauma, abuse, neglect, isolation, chronic stress, and poor coping mechanisms.
Environmental Factors: Substance abuse, unstable living conditions, poverty, cultural pressures, and major life changes.
Symptoms of Mental Illness
Common symptoms include persistent sadness, mood swings, confusion, withdrawal, sleep disturbances, guilt, substance abuse, aggression, and suicidal thoughts.
Therapy
- Psychotherapy
Includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and psychodynamic approaches.
2. Medication
Prescribed for conditions like depression, schizophrenia, or bipolar disorder.
3. Supportive Therapies
Group, family, or individual counseling to provide emotional support and coping strategies.
Therapy varies per individual, and early intervention greatly improves outcomes.
1: What is the definition of mental illness according to the PWD Act, 1995?
It refers to any mental disorder excluding mental retardation (now termed intellectual disability).
2: What are some common causes of mental illness?
Causes include biological (like genetics), psychological (like trauma), and environmental factors (like substance abuse).
3: What are common treatments for mental illness?
A. Treatments include psychotherapy, medication, and supportive therapies like group or family counseling.