Mental health disorders are patterns of symptoms — psychological, behavioral, or both — that cause distress and can have negative effects on your personal, social, or work life.
Mental health disorders are characterized by issues regarding mood, thoughts, and behavior. They may also be referred to as psychological disorders, mental illnesses, and mental health conditions.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, mental illness affects around 1 in 5 adults (52.9 million) in the United States.
Depressive disorders and anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health disorders. The rates are higher in females, young adults, and adults identifying as more than two races.
Mental health professionals in the United States diagnose mental health conditions using a handbook of symptoms called the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DSM-5), which also offers a list of diagnostic codes. Please keep in mind that only an experienced mental health professional can make a diagnosis.
Most mental health conditions are treatable, often through talk therapy (psychotherapy), medication, or both.
While not a comprehensive list of all mental health diagnoses, you can learn more about different mental health disorders, their symptoms, and treatments by browsing the list below.
If you’re looking for mental health support or wondering if you have a mental health disorder, Psych Central’s How to Find Mental Health Support resource may help.