Mental disorders are more common than we are led to believe. You may be surprised to learn that they are among the most common health conditions in the United States. Unfortunately, many people underestimate and normalize their symptoms until their condition gets worse. It would help to read up on the 7 mental problems most adults are facing and how to deal with them.
1. Depression
Depression is a very common mental disorder. While it is a very life-altering illness, many people tend to self-diagnose and claim that they are depressed when they’re just feeling sad. Depressed individuals lose interest in activities that they once enjoyed. They feel low and may feel fatigued and irritable. Depression often comes with changes in appetite, as well as sleep, memory, and concentration issues. People who have depression usually experience intrusive thoughts. They may feel guilty, insecure, worthless, and self-critical.
If you’re suffering from depression, it’s important that you seek help and stay connected with people who make you feel safe, no matter how hard it can be. You shouldn’t succumb to loneliness, as obtaining support plays a great part in overcoming depression. Try to do the things that you used to enjoy, even when you don’t feel like it. Push yourself to not only stay active but also indulge in relaxing and therapeutic activities. Follow a healthy diet and get as much sunlight as you can.
2. Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Those with generalized anxiety disorder tend to worry excessively about various things. Their worry may be disproportionate when it comes to specific situations. It can be very hard to keep those worries under control, causing sufferers to feel relentless, fatigued, and tense. Those with anxiety may also struggle to get sleep and stay focused.
If you’re dealing with anxiety, it’s important that you stay healthy and active. You should avoid drugs, alcohol, and other narcotics. Avoiding caffeine and nicotine can also keep your anxiety at bay. Research and try different relaxation techniques and ensure you make sleep time a top priority.
3. Attention Deficiency Hyperactivity Disorder
Many people believe that ADHD is only prevalent among children. While it’s true that some symptoms may subside with age, many adults can still experience various symptoms. Those with ADHD may struggle with concentration and time management issues. They can also be moody, impulsive, and relentless individuals.
Developing organization habits and structure, such as designating spaces for different things and using calendars and lists, can help you out. If you were wondering how to overcome ADHD, researching time management strategies can also prove beneficial. You should also try to get rid of all distractions when you’re working, as well as work on improving your attention span.
4. Panic Disorder
People with panic disorders experience frequent, unexpected panic attacks, causing elevated heart rates. They tend to worry a lot about having another one. These attacks can be a result of either apparent triggers or even no particular cause.
It can help to extend your knowledge of your illness, as well as learn different relaxation techniques. You must train your thoughts and try to face your fears. You can also make coping cards that include realistic thoughts.
5. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Those with OCD are preoccupied with specific obsessions. They have difficulties thinking of anything else. They feel the need to carry out specific processes or tasks repeatedly, which are called compulsions.
It can help to keep an OCD journal and focus on redirecting your focus. You should try to identify your triggers, and keep an eye out for them. Reward yourself for the smallest successes, and keep your stress levels at a minimum.
6. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
PTSD is characterized by physical and psychological symptoms that typically appear after experiencing distressing and threatening events. PTSD victims will often have nightmares, flashbacks, or intrusive memories of the situation. The nature of the memories is such that they may feel like they are reliving the situation.
If you suffer from PTSD, you must learn to fight your feelings of helplessness. Try to stay active and reach out to others for support. Adopting a healthy lifestyle can also be of great help.
7. Eating Disorders
A common misconception is that eating disorders only affect female teens. Eating disorders don’t target a specific age group and affect males and females alike. Bulimia Nervosa, Anorexia, and Binge-Eating Disorder are among the several types of the illness.
If you suffer from an eating disorder, you can try to keep a mood and food diary. You should also try to partake in mindful activities. Exercising, as long as you do it to boost your mood and not to compensate, is also a good option. Getting adequate support can also help you overcome tough times.
More than half the population will be diagnosed with a mental disorder or illness throughout their lifetime, according to the CDC. In a given year, 1 out of 5 Americans will be subject to a mental illness of some sort. Although we mentioned several ways in which you can deal with your mental issues, you should still seek professional help.