Understanding Conditions

      

Understanding Conditions

Mental health conditions affect how we think, feel, and behave. They are more common than many people realize — and they can happen to anyone. The first step toward support is understanding what these conditions are, how they work, and how they can be managed.

Anxiety Disorders

Anxiety becomes a disorder when it is persistent, intense, and affects daily life. This can include:

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) – ongoing worry about many aspects of life

• Social Anxiety Disorder – fear of being judged in social situations

• Panic Disorder – sudden, intense episodes of fear or discomfort

Depressive Disorders

Depression is more than feeling sad. It can cause loss of interest, fatigue, changes in sleep or appetite, and feelings of hopelessness.

• Major Depressive Disorder – symptoms lasting most of the day, nearly every day

• Persistent Depressive Disorder – milder symptoms lasting for years

ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder)

A condition that affects focus, organization, and self-control. Symptoms can include restlessness, forgetfulness, and difficulty completing tasks.

OCD (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder)

Involves intrusive, unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions) done to reduce distress.

Bipolar Disorder

Marked by extreme mood shifts — from high energy (mania) to deep depression — that can disrupt daily routines.

Psychotic Disorders

Conditions like schizophrenia can involve delusions, hallucinations, and disorganized thinking, making it difficult to tell what is real.

Trauma-Related Disorders

Experiencing or witnessing a distressing event can lead to conditions such as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) or Acute Stress Disorder.

Why Understanding Matters:
The more we know about mental health conditions, the better we can recognize symptoms early, seek help, and offer support to others.