Mental Health 101: Six Common Diagnoses

Mental health problems are on the rise – 20 percent of Americans currently live with a mental health issue, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The COVID-19 pandemic, increased social media prevalence, work stress and burnout, and social isolation have all significantly contributed to the growth of mental health struggles, which means it’s more important than ever to promote awareness, encourage constructive dialogue, and eliminate the stigma for seeking treatment.

If you think you may be struggling with a mental health problem, read on to learn more about six of the most commonly diagnosed mental health issues.

Major Depressive Disorder

While we all get sad on occasion, major depressive disorder is characterized as persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, hopelessness, or fatigue that continue for at least two weeks. These feelings may result in angry outbursts, increased irritability or frustration, or a loss of interest or pleasure in activities usually enjoyed. Those with depression often also experience sleep disturbances, including insomnia or excessive sleeping.

Anxiety Disorder

Generalized anxiety disorder is a condition of excessive worry about everyday issues and situations, even those that would not worry the average person. Those with anxiety disorder often feel restless, panicked, or irritable and have difficulty sleeping and concentrating. They may suffer from intrusive thoughts or panic attacks, which can cause rapid heartbeat, trouble breathing, and shaking.

Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder causes changes in a person's mood, energy, and ability to function. People with bipolar disorder experience intense emotional states that may be categorized as manic (high-energy) or depressive (sad). Signs of bipolar disorder include intense mood swings, excessive energy, impulsive behavior, and exceptionally low moods.

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, commonly known as ADHD, is characterized by an ongoing pattern of inattention or hyperactivity that interferes with functioning. People with ADHD struggle to focus, complete tasks, or listen properly and may be fidgety and unable to sit still.

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Those with obsessive-compulsive disorder, also known as OCD, often experience a pattern of unwanted thoughts and persistent fears and engage in repetitive behaviors or become fixated on a task in an effort to maintain control, such as arranging objects in a specific way or excessively cleaning.

Acute Stress Disorder

Acute stress disorder is characterized as intense or prolonged distress in response to experiencing a traumatic event. Intrusive thoughts, anxiety, irritability, mood swings, poor sleep and concentration, recurrent dreams or flashbacks, and low moods are all common symptoms.

LiveWell Counseling: Compassionate Care for Your Mental Wellness

If you are experiencing symptoms of these or other mental health issues, treatment can help. While seeking assistance for your mental health can be intimidating, our mental wellness is just as important as our physical health, and there is never any shame in receiving care. At LiveWell Counseling, our team of dedicated, highly trained physicians and therapists assess and compassionately treat a variety of mental health issues in a gentle, nonjudgmental setting.

To learn more about LiveWell Counseling, please call (201) 848-5500.