Mental disorders represent a significant challenge to global public health, affecting millions of people and having a substantial impact on individuals’ quality of life. The most common mental disorders in contemporary society are described below.
Depression
Depression is one of the most prevalent mental disorders in the world. It is characterized by a persistent state of sadness, loss of interest in previously pleasurable activities, changes in appetite and sleep, fatigue, and feelings of worthlessness or guilt. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that more than 264 million people suffer from depression. It is a condition that can be chronic or recurrent, and in severe cases, can lead to suicide.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
Generalized Anxiety Disorder is characterized by excessive and uncontrollable worry about various activities or events. Individuals with GAD often experience physical symptoms such as muscle tension, fatigue, restlessness, difficulty concentrating, and sleep problems. The lifetime prevalence of GAD is approximately 5%, with a higher incidence in women.
Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar Disorder involves alternating episodes of mania/hypomania and depression. During manic episodes, individuals may experience euphoria, hyperactivity, reduced need for sleep, and impulsive behaviors. Depressive episodes are similar to those described in major depression. The global prevalence of bipolar disorder is about 1%, with the condition often manifesting in late adolescence or early adulthood.
Schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is a chronic and serious mental disorder that affects how a person thinks, feels and behaves. Symptoms include delusions, hallucinations, disorganized thinking, and abnormal motor behavior. It affects approximately 1% of the world’s population and usually appears in late adolescence or early adulthood. Schizophrenia requires lifelong treatment, including antipsychotic medication and psychosocial therapy.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
PTSD can develop after exposure to a traumatic event, such as a natural disaster, serious accident, violence, or military combat. Symptoms include re-experiencing the traumatic event, avoidance of situations associated with the trauma, negative changes in cognition and mood, and increased reactivity. The lifetime prevalence of PTSD varies, but studies indicate that approximately 3.5% of the population may be affected in any given year.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
OCD is characterized by intrusive and recurring thoughts (obsessions) and/or repetitive behaviors (compulsions) that individuals feel the need to perform to alleviate the anxiety caused by obsessions. It is estimated that around 2% of the population is affected by OCD at some point in their lives. Treatment usually includes cognitive behavioral therapy and, in some cases, medication.
Conclusion
The most common mental disorders, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, PTSD and OCD, affect millions of people globally, causing significant suffering and impacting daily functioning. Understanding these disorders and promoting effective interventions are essential to improving the mental health and quality of life of affected individuals. Investment in research, accessible treatment, and destigmatization of mental disorders are crucial steps toward addressing this important public health issue.
References:
1. World Health Organization. (2021). Depression. Retrieved from [WHO]( Depressive disorder (depression) ).
2. American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (5th ed.).
3. National Institute of Mental Health. (2021). Mental Health Information. Retrieved from [NIMH]( Statistics ).
