Classification of Mental Disorders

Mental disorders can often feel overwhelming, but understanding how they are classified can make things clearer. Let’s break it down in a straightforward way.

What Are Mental Disorders?

Mental disorders, also known as mental illnesses, are health conditions that affect your mood, thinking, and behavior. They can be mild, moderate, or severe and can impact daily functioning.

Why Classify Mental Disorders?

Classification helps in:

• Diagnosis: Knowing what type of disorder you may have.
• Treatment: Finding the right approach to manage symptoms.
• Research: Understanding patterns and causes in mental health.

Major Classifications of Mental Disorders

There are two main systems used for classifying mental disorders:

1. DSM-5 (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders)

• Published by: American Psychiatric Association.
• Focus: Primarily used in the United States.
• Categories:
• Anxiety Disorders: Includes Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Panic Disorder, and Phobias.
• Mood Disorders: Such as Major Depressive Disorder and Bipolar Disorder.
• Personality Disorders: Examples include Borderline Personality Disorder and Narcissistic Personality Disorder.
• Psychotic Disorders: Like Schizophrenia.
• Eating Disorders: Such as Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia.

2. ICD-10 (International Classification of Diseases)

• Published by: World Health Organization (WHO).
• Focus: Used internationally.
• Categories:
• Mental and Behavioral Disorders: Similar to DSM-5 but broader.
• Neurotic Disorders: Includes anxiety and somatoform disorders.
• Mood (Affective) Disorders: Similar to DSM-5 but classified differently.

Steps for Classification

1. Assessment: Mental health professionals conduct interviews and assessments.
2. Observation: Symptoms are observed over time.
3. Diagnosis: Using DSM-5 or ICD-10 criteria, a diagnosis is made.
4. Treatment Plan: Based on the diagnosis, a tailored treatment plan is created.

Real-Life Examples

• Anxiety Disorders: Sarah feels constant worry about her job and has panic attacks before meetings. She may be diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder.
• Mood Disorders: John experiences extreme highs and lows in his emotions, leading to a diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder.
• Personality Disorders: Emily has a pattern of unstable relationships and intense emotions, indicating Borderline Personality Disorder.

Comparison of DSM-5 and ICD-10

Conclusion

Understanding the classification of mental disorders can aid in recognizing symptoms, seeking help, and understanding treatment options. By knowing the types and categories, individuals can better navigate their mental health journey.