Mental disorders and mental illnesses are often used interchangeably, but there is a big distinction between the two. A mental disorder is a problem with how you think, feel, or behave. Mental illness, on the other hand, is a medical condition that affects your mood, thinking, and behavior.
Many people don’t know the difference between the two, which can lead to confusion and misunderstanding. In this post, we will explore the differences between mental disorders and mental illnesses and discuss why it’s important to understand the distinction.
What is a Mental Disorder?
A mental disorder is a problem with how you think, feel, or behave. It can be mild, moderate, or severe. Mental disorders are common—nearly one in five adults in the United States has one. And they’re not just an American problem—mental disorders are global, affecting people of all ages, from all walks of life.
Mental disorders can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
Biological factors: These include genes and brain chemistry.
Psychological factors: These include trauma and stress.
Environmental factors: These include poverty and social isolation.
Many mental disorders are treatable with therapy, medication, or both. With treatment, most people with mental disorders can achieve significant improvement in their symptoms and functioning.
What is a Mental Illness?
Mental illness is a medical condition that affects your mood, thinking, and behavior. Unlike mental disorders, which are problems with how you think, feel, or behave, mental illnesses are medical conditions that can be diagnosed by a doctor.
Mental illnesses are caused by a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors. Like mental disorders, they can be treated with therapy, medication, or both. With treatment, most people with mental illness can achieve significant improvement in their symptoms and functioning.
Why is it Important to Understand the Difference Between Mental Disorders and Mental Illnesses?
It’s important to understand the difference between mental disorders and mental illnesses because the two terms are often used interchangeably, but they mean different things. Mental disorders are problems with how you think, feel, or behave. Mental illness, on the other hand, is a medical condition that affects your mood, thinking, and behavior.
It’s important to understand the difference between mental disorders and mental illnesses because mental disorders do not always lead to mental illness. In fact, many people who have a mental disorder never develop a mental illness. Conversely, many people who have a mental illness do not have a corresponding diagnosed mental disorder.
If you’re struggling with your thoughts or emotions it’s important to seek help from a professional. A diagnosis is key to getting the right treatment for you.
About the Authors
Transitions Center for Natural Mental Health Treatments for a variety of physical and mental dependency issues and conditions. Substance use disorders are difficult to understand for many people. The physical and mental aspects of any substance disorder are complicated and unique to the individual suffering. The differences between physical and psychological dependency vary but have some similarities. Transitions Center for Natural Mental Health Treatments help the public know what to look for as a means of helping a loved one cope with the challenges of mental health disorders.
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