Mental disorders
Mental disorders
Everyone has a mental health. When our mental health is good (enough), we experience a certain degree of well-being in everyday life. We feel a sense of belonging with others and are able to cope with common challenges to a satisfactory degree. People with mental, or psychiatric, disorders experience life differently, and may, for example, feel down or anxious, or otherwise be unhappy, to a significant extent and over a long period of time. Many people with mental disorders also struggle with relationships and/or find it difficult to manage everyday challenges.
Examples of mental disorders include anxiety disorders, depression, substance use disorders, trauma-related conditions, personality disorders, and psychotic disorders. Regardless of the type of disorder, it will manifest differently and to varying degrees from person to person. More severe psychiatric disorders have in common that they cause significant difficulties in living a normal life, such as being employed, managing relationships, or performing daily tasks like cleaning and hygiene. Mental disorders can therefore affect several important areas of life.
Fortunately, mental disorders can be treated. People with mental disorders can learn to manage their challenges more effectively and reduce emotional distress. There are different ways to treat mental disorders, which you can read more about under "Assessment and Treatment". Therefore, healthcare providers will make a thorough assessment to determine the best way to assist each individual patient.
Mental disorders and mental distress
What is the difference between mental distress and mental or psychiatric disorders? Many patients wonder if what they are experiencing is a sign of mental illness or simply a normal expression of mental distress. St. Olav's Hospital in Trondheim has created a video clip that explains this difference.
Below the video, you will find a text summary of the key content.
Summary:
- Having a sound mental health involves feeling content with the life you're living and being able to cope with everyday challenges.
- Mental distress is completely normal and something we all experience from time to time. Feeling down or anxious are common examples of mental distress.
- Mental disorders, on the other hand, are characterized by distress that lasts over time and significantly impacts your ability to function in daily life.
- Mental disorders are very common. Between 15-25% of the Norwegian population will experience a psychiatric disorder in a given year.
- Anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders are the most common mental disorders.
- It is important to seek help if you think you have a mental/psychiatric disorder.