Mental illness is an often-misunderstood disease that is quite common among Americans today. There is much stigma around mental illness that causes people to avoid getting help. Others who want help may not get the support they need from their family and friends because others do not take the problem seriously. But mental illness is a very real disorder that may be affecting someone you know and love. Learn more about this health condition from the experts at Utah Trauma & Addiction Centers.
Defining Mental Illness
Perhaps one reason some people do not understand mental illness is because it can sometimes cause only mild effects on behavior. Mild forms of depression or anxiety, for example, may be something other people think someone should be able to “just get over.” But any level of mental illness should be taken seriously because the disease is the foundation of the mind’s function and affects everything a person does, says, and feels.
Mental illness becomes a more severe problem when it inhibits normal daily activities or brings about dangerous thoughts. Unfortunately, some people reach this stage after they’ve done something drastic, so it’s important for people with potential mental health issues to seek help as soon as possible.
Causes and Warning Signs
Signs of mental illness may be subtle at first, then develop into something stronger. These symptoms can be brought on by genetics, a family history of mental illness, changes in life circumstances, or brain chemistry.
To detect the disease, look out for these warning signals in adults of any age or even young teenagers:
- Confused thinking
- Inability to concentrate
- Delusional thoughts or paranoia
- Extreme fears, guilt, and worry
- Extreme sadness or feeling of defeat
- Major and frequent mood swings
- Lack of appetite
- Change in sleep patterns
- Low energy
- Withdrawal from social situations
- Anger and hostility
- Suicidal thoughts or actions
- Substance abuse
Treatment Possibilities
Mental illness is a diagnosable disorder that can be treated with the help of a doctor, psychologist, or psychiatric specialist. We encourage anyone with a suspected mental illness to seek treatment from a professional and never turn to drugs or alternative methods without approval from a doctor.
Mental health rehab centers are another place to turn when seeking help with mental illness. If you live in Utah, turn to Utah Trauma & Addiction Centers for residential treatment in the beautiful hills of Eagle Mountain, Utah. Contact them today here.