Health 9/6/18

Mental and Emotional Disorders It’s normal to feel sad, anxious, or fearful from time to time, however if those feelings last longer such as days or weeks it may be a signal of mental and emotional disorders. Sometimes there’s is a physical cause such as inherited genetic traits. Can be caused by stress, lack of coping skills, or negative experience.

Anxiety Disorders Is a disorder in which intense anxiety or fear keeps a person from functioning normally. Types of Anxiety Disorders: Phobias: are inappropriate or exaggerated fears of something specific. Some phobias can interfere with normal activities Obsessive-compulsive disorder: is a condition in which a person cannot keep certain thoughts or images out of his or hers mind. The person may then develop repetitive behaviors, such as constant hand washing, to relieve the anxiety. Various stress disorders: may affect people who have been through overwhelming experiences, such as violent attack. Symptoms may include flashbacks to the event, nightmares, and intense fear.

Mood Disorders Is a disorder in which a person undergoes mood changes that seem inappropriate or extreme. Not always a reaction to events in their lives. Depression: is a mood disorder involving feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, worthlessness, guilt, and extreme sadness that continue for long periods of time. Very serious condition that may leave a person completely unwilling or unable to function. Bipolar disorder: in which a person has extreme mood swings for no apparent reason. Person with bipolar swing between periods of hyperactivity(mania) and depression. During hyperactivity a person may partake in dangerous activity.

Warning Signs of Mental or Emotional Disorders Loss of appetite Trouble concentrating or making decisions Suspecting that everyone is against you. Taking extreme or unusual risks. Not taking care of yourself. Sudden or extreme changes in mood. Aches and pains that seem to have no medical cause Trouble sleeping or frequent nightmares Continually feeling sad Feelings of hopelessness Warning Signs of Mental or Emotional Disorders If you notice someone or yourself struggling. Seek help from a trusted adult, or use help lines.

Treating Mental and Emotional Disorders It is very important to reach out for help and get treatment. Where to find help: Talk it out with someone you trust Resources to use: Parent/guardian or other family members: Families are a built in Support System: a network of people available to help when needed. Mental health professional: these people are trained to help with these disorders. A family doctor or school counselor can recommend a professional to you. A teacher or school nurse or counselor: can help get you resources to help. Religious leader: they have experience in guiding or counseling people.