Types of mental and social disorders

There are many different types of mental and social disorders, here is a list of some of the most common:

Types of mental and social disorders

Mental and social disorders are a significant public health concern that affects millions of people worldwide. They are complex, multifactorial conditions that have a wide range of symptoms and can have a significant impact on an individual’s ability to function in daily life. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that one in four people will be affected by mental or neurological disorders at some point in their lives.

Effective treatments for mental and social disorders are available, but access to these treatments remains a significant challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. In a report, the World Health Organization (WHO) states that “Despite evidence that mental disorders can be effectively treated, there is a treatment gap of over 90% in low- and middle-income countries.”

It is crucial that mental and social disorders are recognized as a significant public health concern and that resources are allocated to improving access to evidence-based treatments and support services. As stated in a report by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), “Investing in mental health is essential for overall health and well-being, and for the development and functioning of individuals, families, and communities.”

In conclusion, mental and social disorders are a serious public health concern that affects millions of people worldwide and have a significant impact on an individual’s ability to function in daily life. Despite the availability of effective treatments, access to these treatments remains a significant challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

1. • Anxiety disorders: such as Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, and Specific Phobias

Anxiety disorders are a group of mental disorders characterized by excessive and persistent feelings of anxiety, worry, and fear. These disorders can have a significant impact on an individual’s ability to function in daily life and can be associated with physical symptoms such as increased heart rate, sweating, and muscle tension.

• • • • • Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): GAD is characterized by excessive and unrealistic worry and tension about everyday events and activities. Individuals with GAD experience excessive worry about money, work, health, and other everyday matters. Symptoms of GAD include restlessness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, muscle tension, and sleep disturbances.
        • Panic Disorder: Panic disorder is characterized by recurrent and unexpected panic attacks, which are sudden episodes of intense fear or discomfort that reach a peak within minutes. Symptoms of a panic attack include palpitations, sweating, trembling, shortness of breath, and a feeling of impending doom.
        • Social Anxiety Disorder: Social anxiety disorder, also known as social phobia, is characterized by excessive fear of social situations and being judged or evaluated by others. Individuals with social anxiety disorder experience intense anxiety and self-consciousness in situations such as public speaking, making small talk, and meeting new people.
        • Specific Phobias: Specific phobias are intense and irrational fears of specific objects or situations, such as heights, flying, or spiders. Individuals with specific phobias experience significant distress and avoidance in the presence of or the thought of the feared object or situation.

Treatment for anxiety disorders typically includes a combination of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, and medication, such as antidepressants. Additionally, self-help techniques like mindfulness and relaxation techniques can be effective in managing anxiety symptoms.

1. • Mood disorders: such as Major Depressive Disorder, Bipolar Disorder, and Dysthymia

Mood disorders are a group of mental disorders characterized by persistent and abnormal changes in mood that can significantly affect an individual’s ability to function in daily life.

• • • • Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): MDD is characterized by a persistent feeling of sadness or loss of interest in activities, coupled with other symptoms such as changes in appetite and sleep, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, and thoughts of suicide. MDD is one of the most common mental disorders and it affects millions of people worldwide.
      • Bipolar Disorder: Bipolar disorder, also known as manic-depressive illness, is characterized by episodes of manic or hypomanic (a milder form of mania) and depressive symptoms. Manic symptoms include an elevated or irritable mood, increased energy, decreased need for sleep, racing thoughts, and impulsive behavior. Depressive symptoms include feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities.
      • Dysthymia: Dysthymia, also known as persistent depressive disorder, is characterized by a chronic low mood that lasts for at least two years. Symptoms of dysthymia are similar to those of major depression but less severe.

Treatment for mood disorders typically includes a combination of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, and medication, such as antidepressants or mood stabilizers. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and maintaining a healthy diet, as well as self-help techniques like mindfulness and relaxation techniques, can be effective in managing symptoms of mood disorders.

It’s important to note that these disorders are not the same and have different symptoms, causes and treatment. A comprehensive evaluation by a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist, is necessary to make an accurate diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment.

• • Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders

Schizophrenia is a severe mental disorder that affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves. It is characterized by a range of symptoms that can include hallucinations, delusions, disordered thinking, and changes in emotional expression.

• • • • Schizophrenia: Schizophrenia is characterized by a range of symptoms that can include hallucinations (hearing, seeing, or feeling things that are not there), delusions (fixed false beliefs), disordered thinking (difficulty in focusing or following a conversation, trouble understanding simple statements, and problems with memory), and changes in emotional expression (flat affect, lack of motivation, and social withdrawal). These symptoms can lead to significant functional impairment and disability.
      • Other Psychotic Disorders: There are several other types of psychotic disorders such as Schizoaffective disorder, Delusional disorder, Brief Psychotic disorder, and Substance-induced psychotic disorder.

Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders are thought to be caused by a combination of genetic, neurobiological, and environmental factors. Treatment typically includes a combination of medication and therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy. Antipsychotic medications are typically used to manage the positive symptoms of psychosis (hallucinations and delusions) and to reduce the risk of relapse.

It is important to note that these disorders are severe, and individuals with psychosis require comprehensive care and support. Early intervention and treatment is important for the best outcome. A comprehensive assessment by a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist, is necessary to make an accurate diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment.

1. • Personality disorders: such as Borderline Personality Disorder, Narcissistic Personality Disorder, and Antisocial Personality Disorder

Personality disorders are a group of mental disorders characterized by patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving that are inflexible and maladaptive, and deviate significantly from the expectations of an individual’s culture. These patterns lead to significant impairments in social and occupational functioning.

• • • • Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD): BPD is characterized by a pattern of unstable interpersonal relationships, self-image, and affect. Individuals with BPD may have intense and unstable relationships, have a distorted self-image and may make frantic efforts to avoid abandonment. They may also have intense and unstable emotions, impulsive behavior, and a pattern of self-harm or suicidal behavior.
      • Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD): NPD is characterized by a pervasive pattern of grandiosity, need for admiration, and a lack of empathy. Individuals with NPD have an inflated sense of their own importance, a deep need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others. They may also have a sense of entitlement, exploit others, and lack the ability to take responsibility for their own actions.
      • Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD): ASPD is characterized by a pervasive pattern of disregard for and violation of the rights of others. Individuals with ASPD may have a history of criminal behavior, deceitfulness, impulsivity, and a lack of remorse. They may also have a history of violating social norms and the law.

Treatment for personality disorders can be challenging, but typically includes a combination of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, and medication. It’s important to note that personality disorders are long-term patterns of thinking, feeling, and behaving, and treatment can take a long time to achieve meaningful changes. A comprehensive assessment by a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist, is necessary to make an accurate diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment.

1. • Eating disorders: such as Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, and Binge Eating Disorder

Eating disorders are a group of mental disorders characterized by abnormal eating habits and attitudes towards food that can have serious physical and psychological consequences.

• • • • Anorexia Nervosa: Anorexia is characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight, distorted body image, and a refusal to maintain a healthy body weight. Individuals with anorexia may excessively restrict food intake, engage in excessive exercise, and have a distorted body image.
      • Bulimia Nervosa: Bulimia is characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors such as self-induced vomiting, laxative abuse, fasting, or excessive exercise. Individuals with bulimia may have a distorted body image and a fear of gaining weight.
      • Binge Eating Disorder (BED): BED is characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating in which an individual eats an excessive amount of food in a short period of time and feels a lack of control over their eating. BED is not followed by compensatory behaviors, unlike Bulimia.

Treatment for eating disorders typically includes a combination of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, and medication. In severe cases, hospitalization may be necessary. It’s important to note that eating disorders can be life-threatening and require prompt treatment. A comprehensive assessment by a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or a psychologist, is necessary to make an accurate diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment.

1. • Trauma- and stressor-related disorders: such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Acute Stress Disorder

Trauma- and stressor-related disorders are a group of mental disorders that can occur after an individual experiences or witnesses a traumatic or stressful event.

• • • • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): PTSD is a severe anxiety disorder that can develop after exposure to a traumatic event such as military combat, sexual or physical assault, accident, natural disaster, or other life-threatening events. Symptoms include re-experiencing the traumatic event through flashbacks or nightmares, avoidance of reminders of the event, negative changes in mood and cognition, and increased arousal and reactivity.
      • Acute Stress Disorder (ASD): ASD is a similar condition to PTSD, but it occurs in the immediate aftermath of a traumatic event, and its symptoms last for a shorter period, typically less than a month. Symptoms include dissociation, avoidance, and re-experiencing the traumatic event.

Treatment for trauma- and stressor-related disorders typically includes a combination of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, and medication. Trauma-focused therapies, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Prolonged Exposure therapy have been shown to be effective in treating PTSD. It’s important to note that these disorders can have a significant impact on an individual’s ability to function in daily life and can require prompt treatment. A comprehensive assessment by a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or a psychologist, is necessary to make an accurate diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment.

1. • Substance-related and addictive disorders: such as Alcohol Use Disorder and Substance Use Disorder

Substance-related and addictive disorders are a group of mental disorders characterized by the recurrent use of substances despite the negative consequences it causes.

• • • • Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD): Alcohol use disorder is characterized by a problematic pattern of alcohol use leading to clinically significant impairment or distress, as manifested by at least two of the following, occurring within a 12-month period: tolerance, withdrawal, drinking more or longer than intended, persistent desire to cut down or quit, much time spent on alcohol-related activities, social, occupational or recreational activities given up or reduced, and continued use despite knowledge of having a persistent or recurrent physical or psychological problem that is likely to have been caused or exacerbated by alcohol.
      • Substance Use Disorder (SUD): Substance use disorder is a problematic pattern of using substances leading to clinically significant impairment or distress, as manifested by at least two of the following, occurring within a 12-month period: tolerance, withdrawal, using more or longer than intended, persistent desire to cut down or quit, much time spent on substance-related activities, social, occupational or recreational activities given up or reduced, and continued use despite knowledge of having a persistent or recurrent physical or psychological problem that is likely to have been caused or exacerbated by the substance.

Treatment for substance-related and addictive disorders typically includes a combination of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and medication. Medications such as Naltrexone, Acamprosate, and disulfiram can be used to help reduce cravings and prevent relapse. Behavioral therapies, such as motivational interviewing or contingency management, can be used to help individuals change their behavior and improve their ability to manage their addiction. Additionally, support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) or Narcotics Anonymous (NA) can be beneficial. Treatment for substance use disorders is highly individualized, therefore, a comprehensive assessment by a mental health professional is necessary to make an accurate diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment.

1. • Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by a persistent pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development.

• • • • Inattention: Symptoms of inattention include difficulty sustaining attention, forgetfulness, poor organizational skills, and difficulty with tasks that require sustained mental effort.
      • Hyperactivity-Impulsivity: Symptoms of hyperactivity-impulsivity include fidgeting, excessive talking, interrupting others, and acting impulsively without thinking through the consequences.

Individuals with ADHD may have difficulty with attention, impulse control, and regulating their level of activity. These difficulties can lead to problems in academic, occupational, and social settings. ADHD can co-occur with other conditions such as anxiety, depression, or learning disorders.

The treatment for ADHD typically includes a combination of medication, such as stimulants, and therapy, such as behavior therapy or parent training. Medications such as Ritalin, Adderall, and Concerta can help improve attention and reduce impulsivity and hyperactivity. Behavioral therapies can help individuals and their families learn strategies to manage symptoms and improve functioning. It’s important to note that ADHD is a chronic condition and requires ongoing management and support. A comprehensive evaluation by a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist

1. • Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neuro-develop mental disorder characterized by difficulty with social interaction and communication, and by a restricted and repetitive pattern of behavior, interests, or activities.

• • • • Social interaction: Individuals with ASD may have difficulty with social interaction, such as making and maintaining friendships, understanding nonverbal cues, and interpreting social cues.
      • Communication: Individuals with ASD may have difficulty with communication, such as delayed language development, difficulty initiating and maintaining conversations, and difficulty understanding figurative language.
      • Repetitive behaviors and interests: Individuals with ASD may have restricted and repetitive behaviors and interests, such as lining up toys or repeating phrases. They may also have intense and focused interests in specific topics or objects.

ASD is a spectrum disorder, which means that it affects individuals differently and to varying degrees. Some individuals with ASD may have high cognitive abilities and excel in specific areas, while others may have intellectual or language impairments.

The treatment for ASD typically includes a combination of therapies such as behavior therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is one of the most widely used behavioral therapies for individuals with ASD, which focuses on the development of communication, social and other functional skills. Medications may also be used to address specific symptoms such as anxiety, ADHD, or depression.

It’s important to note that early intervention is crucial for individuals with ASD and that a comprehensive assessment by a multidisciplinary team, including a developmental pediatrician, a psychologist or a psychiatrist, a speech and language therapist and an occupational therapist is

1. • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental disorder characterized by persistent, uncontrollable thoughts, impulses, or images (obsessions) that are distressing and/or the recurrent, persistent, and excessive urge to perform certain behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) in response to an obsession or according to rigidly applied rules.

• • • • Obsessions: Obsessions are recurrent and persistent thoughts, impulses, or images that are experienced as intrusive, distressing, and unacceptable. Common obsessions include fears of contamination, harm, or making mistakes, and also excessive concern with order, symmetry, or religious or moral issues.
      • Compulsions: Compulsions are repetitive behaviors or mental acts that an individual feels driven to perform in response to an obsession or according to rigidly applied rules. Common compulsions include excessive cleaning, counting, checking, praying, or repeating words or phrases. These behaviors are performed in order to reduce anxiety caused by the obsession.

OCD can be a debilitating disorder that can interfere with daily functioning, but with treatment, most people with OCD can improve significantly. Treatment typically includes a combination of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and medication, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). CBT for OCD (CBT-OCD) focuses on the identification and modification of the thoughts, beliefs, and behaviors that maintain the cycle of obsessions and compulsion…

1. • Dissociative disorders: such as Depersonalization-Derealization Disorder

Dissociative disorders are a group of mental disorders characterized by disruptions in consciousness, memory, identity, emotion, and/or perception.

• • • • Depersonalization-Derealization Disorder (DDD): DDD is characterized by persistent or recurrent episodes of depersonalization and/or derealization. Depersonalization is the experience of feeling detached from one’s own thoughts, feelings, emotions, or body, as if one is observing oneself from the outside. Derealization is the experience of the external world as strange, unreal, or not quite real. Individuals with DDD may also experience a sense of being detached from time, space, and reality.

DDD is often associated with severe stress or trauma, and can co-occur with other mental disorders such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other dissociative disorders.

Treatment for dissociative disorders typically includes therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, and psychoanalytic psychotherapy. Medication may also be used to manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other co-occurring conditions. It’s important to note that dissociative disorders can be complex and may require a long-term treatment approach. A comprehensive assessment by a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or a psychologist, is necessary to make an accurate diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment.

1. • Adjustment disorders

Adjustment disorder is a mental disorder characterized by the development of emotional or behavioral symptoms in response to a specific stressor or stressors. These symptoms are clinically significant as they interfere with an individual’s ability to function in daily life.

Symptoms of adjustment disorder may include:

• • • • Depression, sadness, or tearfulness
      • Anxiety or worry
      • Difficulty sleeping or eating
      • Anger, irritability, or agitation
      • Physical complaints
      • Difficulty concentrating
      • Social withdrawal

The symptoms occur within three months of the onset of the stressor or stressors and usually resolve within six months after the stressor or stressors have ended.

Adjustment disorder is a common response to life events such as the loss of a loved one, a relationship break-up, a job loss, a move, or a major change in health status.

Treatment for adjustment disorder typically includes therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, and medication. Supportive counseling and stress management techniques, such as relaxation and mindfulness, can also be helpful. It’s important to note that early intervention is key in treating adjustment disorders, and a comprehensive assessment by a mental health professional is necessary to make an accurate diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment.

1. • Somatoform disorders

Somatoform disorders are a group of mental disorders characterized by physical symptoms that suggest a medical condition, but that cannot be fully explained by a medical condition, substance use, or another mental disorder. These physical symptoms are not intentionally produced or feigned.

• • • • Somatization disorder: This disorder is characterized by multiple physical complaints that have persisted for several years and cannot be fully explained by a medical condition or substance use.
      • Conversion disorder: This disorder is characterized by one or more symptoms of a nervous system dysfunction, such as weakness, numbness, or blindness, that cannot be fully explained by a medical condition or substance use.
      • Pain disorder: This disorder is characterized by pain that is severe enough to cause significant distress or impairment, and cannot be fully explained by a medical condition or substance use.
      • Hypochondriasis: This disorder is characterized by a preoccupation with the fear of having a serious illness, despite medical reassurance to the contrary.

Treatment for somatoform disorders typically includes therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, and medication. It’s important to note that these disorders can be difficult to diagnose and treat, and a comprehensive assessment by a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or a psychologist, and a medical doctor is necessary to make an accurate diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment.

1. • Factitious disorders

Factitious disorders are a group of mental disorders characterized by the intentional production or feigning of physical or psychological symptoms in order to assume the sick role.

• • • • Factitious disorder imposed on self (formerly known as Munchausen syndrome): This disorder is characterized by the intentional production or feigning of physical or psychological symptoms in order to assume the sick role. Individuals with this disorder may go to great lengths, such as injuring themselves or falsifying medical records, to convince others that they have a medical condition.
      • Factitious disorder imposed on another (formerly known as Munchausen by proxy): This disorder is characterized by an individual inducing or fabricating illness in someone under their care, such as a child, in order to assume the role of a caretaker.

Treatment for factitious disorders typically includes therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, and medication. It’s important to note that these disorders can be difficult to diagnose and treat, and a comprehensive assessment by a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or a psychologist, and a medical doctor is necessary to make an accurate diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment.

1. • Impulse control disorders

Impulse control disorders are a group of mental disorders characterized by the failure to resist an impulse, drive, or temptation to perform an act that is harmful to oneself or others.

• • • • Intermittent explosive disorder: This disorder is characterized by recurrent, impulsive, or aggressive outbursts that are out of proportion to the situation.
      • Kleptomania: This disorder is characterized by recurrent episodes of failure to resist impulses to steal objects that are not needed for personal use or monetary value.
      • Pyromania: This disorder is characterized by recurrent episodes of failure to resist impulses to set fires.
      • Pathological gambling: This disorder is characterized by recurrent episodes of failure to resist impulses to gamble despite harmful negative consequences or a desire to stop.
      • Trichotillomania: This disorder is characterized by recurrent episodes of failure to resist impulses to pull out one’s hair, resulting in noticeable hair loss.

Treatment for impulse control disorders typically includes therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, and medication. Medications such as antidepressants and mood stabilizers have been used to help reduce impulsive behavior.

• • It’s important to note that this list is not exhaustive and there are many other types of mental and social disorders that are not included. All these disorders can be difficult to diagnose and treat, and a comprehensive assessment by a mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist or a psychologist, is necessary to make an accurate diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment.Additionally, many mental health conditions exist on a spectrum and can manifest in different ways in different individuals.

Mental and social disorders are a complex and heterogeneous group of conditions that can have significant impact on an individual’s ability to function in daily life. They are caused by a combination of genetic, biological, psychological, and social factors.

• According to the World Health Organization (WHO), “Mental disorders are among the leading causes of ill-health and disability worldwide.” The WHO estimates that 1 in 4 people in the world will be affected by mental or neurological disorders at some point in their lives.
• Research has shown that early intervention and treatment can lead to better outcomes for individuals with mental and social disorders. The National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) states that “Effective treatments are available for most people with mental disorders. Treatment can include medication, psychotherapy, or a combination of the two.”

It’s important to note that mental and social disorders are not a sign of weakness or a personal failing and that seeking help is a sign of strength. As the American Psychological Association (APA) states, “Mental disorders are real and can be effectively diagnosed and treated. With the right help, people can and do recover.