Mental Health Disorders Mental health disorders, like depression and anxiety, impact how we think, feel, and act.
There are over 200 different types of mental illnesses. Treatment, which can include medication, therapy, alternative approaches, or brain stimulation, often helps alleviate symptoms.

Outlook / Prognosis Living With Sun: What is mental health and why is it important?
 Mental health, often referred to as behavioral health, encompasses your psychological, emotional, and social well-being. It influences how you think, feel, and behave, as well as how you handle stress and interact with others. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood through adulthood, and plays a crucial role in overall quality of life. What is a mental health disorder?
 Mental health disorders, also known as behavioral health disorders or mental illnesses, are conditions that affect how you think, feel, and behave. These disorders can impact your mood and make it difficult to function in daily life, whether at home, work, school, or in social settings.

It’s essential to understand that poor mental health does not always equate to having a mental illness. You can experience periods of poor mental health without a diagnosed disorder, and vice versa—someone with a mental illness can have stretches of good mental health. Are there different types of mental health disorders? Yes, there are over 200 types of mental health disorders. Some of the most common include:

● Anxiety disorders
● Mood disorders like depression and bipolar disorder
● Disruptive behavior disorders (e.g., oppositional defiant disorder, conduct disorder)
● Eating disorders
● Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
● Personality disorders (e.g., borderline personality disorder, antisocial personality disorder)
● Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
● Psychotic disorders like schizophrenia
● Substance use disorders, including drug and alcohol addiction
 How are mental health disorders diagnosed? Who can be affected by mental health disorders? Mental health disorders can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, background, or ethnicity. For example, women are more likely to experience anxiety, depression, and eating disorders, while men are more prone to substance abuse and antisocial personality disorders. Overview How common are mental health disorders? Mental health disorders are very common. About 1 in 5 adults and adolescents live with a mental health disorder. Half of all mental illnesses begin by age 14, and three-quarters by age 24. Unfortunately, mental illness is often linked to suicide, which is the second leading cause of death for people ages 15 to 34. What causes mental health disorders? Mental health disorders can arise from various factors, including:

● Genetic predisposition or inherited traits
● Chemical imbalances in the brain
● Alcohol or drug use
● Poor nutrition
● Lack of a support system
● Trauma, such as abuse or a difficult birth
● Chronic medical conditions (e.g., cancer, diabetes)
● Stress, sleep disorders, or traumatic brain injuries
● Spiritual or belief struggles Mon - Fri: Sat: CLOSED A healthcare professional, often specializing in behavioral health, will evaluate your symptoms to make a diagnosis. While there are no medical tests specifically for diagnosing mental illness, blood work or imaging tests may be used to rule out other conditions. Management and Treatment
 How are mental health disorders treated? Treatments vary but may include:

Medication: Antidepressants, antipsychotics, and other medications can help manage symptoms by balancing brain chemicals.

Psychotherapy: Talking to a therapist can help you address challenges, change negative thought patterns, and manage symptoms. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a popular form of psychotherapy.

Alternative therapies: Yoga, meditation, acupuncture, and herbal remedies can also complement treatment. Consult your healthcare provider before trying any alternative treatments.

Brain stimulation therapies: For more severe cases, treatments like electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) or transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can help. Prevention (03) 4023 8899 Symptoms and Causes What are the symptoms of mental health disorders? Call us Symptoms vary widely but may include:

● Substance abuse (alcohol or drugs)
● Avoiding social interactions
● Changes in sex drive
● Difficulty perceiving reality, including delusions or hallucinations
● Excessive fear or worry
● Fatigue or sleep disturbances
● Feelings of sadness, isolation, or anger
● Sudden mood swings
● Difficulty concentrating
● Obsessive thoughts about physical appearance or eating habits
● Suicidal thoughts or self-harm

In children, mental health disorders can manifest as:

● Poor school performance
● Loss of interest in favorite activities
● Excessive worry or anxiety
● Aggression, disobedience, or frequent tantrums
● Hyperactivity or trouble focusing
● Nightmares Symptoms and Causes Diagnosis and Tests Management and Treatment Overview Prevention Contents What are the symptoms of mental health disorders? Symptoms vary widely but may include:

● Substance abuse (alcohol or drugs)
● Avoiding social interactions
● Changes in sex drive
● Difficulty perceiving reality, including delusions or hallucinations
● Excessive fear or worry
● Fatigue or sleep disturbances
● Feelings of sadness, isolation, or anger
● Sudden mood swings
● Difficulty concentrating
● Obsessive thoughts about physical appearance or eating habits
● Suicidal thoughts or self-harm

In children, mental health disorders can manifest as:

● Poor school performance
● Loss of interest in favorite activities
● Excessive worry or anxiety
● Aggression, disobedience, or frequent tantrums
● Hyperactivity or trouble focusing
● Nightmares Send an email Diagnosis and Tests mail support@robinvaleclinic.com.au Can mental health disorders be prevented? While mental health disorders cannot always be prevented, early intervention and treatment can help manage symptoms. If you notice changes in your mental health, seek professional help right away. Outlook / Prognosis
 What is the prognosis for mental health disorders? Most people with mental health disorders can manage their symptoms and lead fulfilling lives with appropriate treatment. Symptoms often peak in early adulthood but may decrease with age. However, mental illness can increase the risk of other health issues, such as heart disease or stroke. Living With When should I seek help? If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors, get help immediately by calling the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 13 11 14 or 000 in an emergency.

Mental health is essential for overall well-being, and with the right support, many people successfully manage their conditions. Book an appointment Opening times 9:00am - 5:00pm Reach out 9:00am - 5:00pm