The 5 Most Common Mental Disorders

most common mental health disorders

Mental health is as crucial as physical health, yet it often goes unaddressed due to stigma, lack of awareness, or misunderstanding of the symptoms. At Palm Springs Behavioral Health, we help people recover from mental disorders for holistic well-being.

1. Anxiety

Anxiety disorders go beyond everyday nervousness. They can cause intense fear or anxiety in situations where most people would feel calm and relaxed. Symptoms include:

  • Excessive worrying that’s difficult to control
  • Feeling restless, irritable, or tense
  • Fatigue
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Physical symptoms like increased heart rate, sweating, trembling, or gastrointestinal issues

2. Depression

Depression is a common but potentially severe mood disorder that affects how you feel, think, and handle daily activities. Its characteristics include:

  • Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness
  • Loss of interest in previously enjoyable hobbies
  • Changes in appetite or weight
  • Sleeping too much or not enough
  • Fatigue and lack of motivation
  • Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
  • Difficulty thinking, concentrating, or making decisions
  • Frequent thoughts of death or suicide

3. Bipolar Disorder

Hallmarks of bipolar disorder include extreme mood swings that can vacillate between mania and depression. During manic phases, you may have increased energy and inflated self-esteem that make you feel invincible or give you grandiose ideas. Meanwhile, a depressive period can cause hopelessness and despair.

4. Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

PTSD can develop after exposure to a terrifying event or ordeal. Symptoms generally fall into five categories:

  • Intrusive memories, including flashbacks or nightmares
  • Avoiding anything that might remind you of what you went through
  • Negative changes in thinking and mood, such as feelings of detachment
  • Hyperarousal, or startling easily
  • Difficulty sleeping

5. Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

OCD features a pattern of unwanted thoughts and fears that you attempt to control through repetitive behaviors. Symptoms include:

  • Persistent, uncontrollable beliefs or urges that may be highly unrealistic
  • The intense need to perform specific routines, such as counting or sanitizing objects
  • Time-consuming preoccupations that interfere with your regular responsibilities
  • Disordered or magical thinking

Prioritizing Your Mental Well-Being at Palm Springs Behavioral Health

At Palm Springs Behavioral Health, we provide a supportive environment where you can seek help for your mental health and begin healing. We emphasize the importance of a comprehensive approach that may include therapy, medication, and lifestyle adjustments tailored to our clients’ unique needs. We are here to help if you are struggling with your mental wellness. Contact us today to speak with an admissions counselor.