Over the past two decades, there has been a growing interest in mental health, with increased awareness and conversations about its importance in overall wellbeing. Mental illness (mental health disorder), affects how people think, feel, and behave. It’s important to understand what mental illness means because it helps individuals, families, and professionals identify when someone might need help and how can get it. Understanding mental illness is the first step in promoting better mental health.
What Is Mental Illness?
Mental illness refers to a wide range of mental health conditions. These conditions can affect mood, thinking, and behaviour. Examples include depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and eating disorders.
Health professionals use two major tools to classify and diagnose mental illnesses:
- DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition): Published by the American Psychiatric Association, the DSM-5 provides clear criteria to identify mental health disorders.
- CD-10 (International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision): Developed by the World Health Organization (WHO), this system classifies mental illnesses as part of overall health conditions globally.
Both systems ensure that mental health professionals use a common language when diagnosing and treating patients.
What Causes Mental Illness?
Mental illness has no single cause. Instead, it can result from a combination of factors:
- Biological factors: Genetics, brain chemistry, or physical health problems can play a role.
- Environmental factors: Stressful life events, trauma, or abuse may trigger mental health conditions.
- Psychological factors: Personality traits or coping mechanisms may contribute.
Signs of Mental Illness
Each mental illness has unique symptoms, but some common signs include:
- Persistent sadness or anxiety
- Extreme mood changes
- Withdrawal from friends and activities
- Difficulty concentrating
- Changes in sleeping or eating habits
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it’s important to seek help.
Who Can Help?
Many professionals are trained to support people with mental health challenges, including:
- General Practitioners (GPs): Your family doctor can assess your symptoms and refer you to specialists.
- Psychiatrists: They are medical doctors specialised in psychiatry. They can diagnose and treat mental illnesses. They can prescribe medication and recommend therapies.
- Psychologists: Professionals trained to understand behaviour and mental processes. They use therapies like cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT).
- Therapists: Other qualified professionals, incl. clinical social workers/accredited mental health social workers and counsellors. They can also provide various forms of mental health treatment, including initial assessments and continuous psychological support. They provide counselling and psychotherapy (such as CBT, DBT, ACT, SFBT and other therapies) to help individuals navigate life challenges, develop coping skills, and address underlying emotional issues. They often focus on holistic care, considering the person’s environment, relationships, and overall well-being. Also, they specialize in creating a safe, non-judgmental space for clients to explore their feelings, identify problems, and work toward personal growth. Their roles are crucial in providing support tailored to each individual’s needs.
How Long Mental Illness May Last
The duration of a mental illness varies greatly depending on the individual, the type of disorder, and the treatment received. Some mental health conditions, like an episode of depression or anxiety, may last for weeks or months and resolve with proper care. Other conditions, such as bipolar disorder or schizophrenia, may be long-term or lifelong but can often be managed effectively with ongoing treatment and support. Early intervention and consistent treatment can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life.
Treatments for Mental Illness
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to treating mental illness. Effective treatment often combines different methods, such as:
- Medication: Drugs like antidepressants, antipsychotics, or mood stabilizers can help manage symptoms. These are prescribed by a psychiatrist or a GP.
- Counselling or Psychotherapy: Talking therapies, such as CBT or interpersonal therapy, help people understand and manage their thoughts and behaviours.
- Lifestyle Changes: Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and good sleep habits can improve mental health.
- Groups: Connecting with others who have similar experiences can reduce isolation and provide encouragement.
Why Classification Is Necessary
Classifying mental illnesses helps:
- Ensure consistent and accurate diagnoses
- Guide treatment plans
- Facilitate research to improve care
- piReduce stigma by increasing understanding
Seeking Help Is Not a Sign of Weakness – It Is a Sign of Strength
Mental illness is common. In fact, one in five people experiences a mental health condition each year (Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2022). Seeking help early can lead to better outcomes and prevent issues from worsening.
In conclusion, understanding mental illness is the first step in promoting better mental health. With the right support and treatment, people with mental illnesses can lead fulfilling lives. If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out. As a therapist, I’m here to provide support and help you navigate the challenges you may be facing. Together, we can work toward your recovery and wellbeing. Contact me to learn more about how I can help.
Author: Nenad Bakaj, MHumServ (RehabCouns), BSocWk, DipAppSci (Comm&HumServ), AMHSW, MAAC, MAASW, JP (Qld)
Nenad Bakaj is a Brisbane based Clinical Counsellor, Accredited Mental Health Social Worker, Life Coach and Bigger Bite Out Of Life Trainer with a keen interest in positive psychology, mental health and wellbeing, and is continually developing his professional skills and knowledge. Nenad enjoys working with adolescents and young adults, as well as older clients, and feels it is a privilege to be able to support them.
References
1. American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
2. Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2022). National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing. Retrieved from https://www.abs.gov.au
3. Beyond Blue. (n.d.). Mental health resources and support. Retrieved from https://www.beyondblue.org.au
4. World Health Organization. (1992). The ICD-10 Classification of Mental and Behavioural Disorders: Clinical Descriptions and Diagnostic Guidelines. Geneva: World Health Organization