List of Mental Disorders in the DSM-IV and DSM-IV-TR (Alphabetical)

The DSM-IV (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition) and its update, the DSM-IV-TR (Text Revision), are essential tools in psychology and psychiatry. They provide a standardized classification of mental disorders, helping clinicians diagnose and treat patients effectively. In this blog, we will explore an alphabetical list of mental disorders found in these manuals, making it easier for you to understand them.

Understanding the DSM

Before we dive into the list, it’s important to know what the DSM is. The DSM provides:

• Criteria for diagnosing mental disorders.
• Descriptions of each disorder, including symptoms and duration.
• Guidance for clinicians on treatment approaches.

These manuals categorize mental disorders into various groups, such as mood disorders, anxiety disorders, and personality disorders.

Alphabetical List of Mental Disorders

Here’s an alphabetical list of some of the mental disorders from the DSM-IV and DSM-IV-TR:

A

• Adjustment Disorders: Emotional or behavioral symptoms following a stressor, such as moving to a new city.
• Agoraphobia: Fear of being in situations where escape might be difficult, like being in a crowded place.

B

• Bipolar Disorder: Characterized by extreme mood swings, from mania to depression.
• Borderline Personality Disorder: Intense emotional instability and difficulty in relationships.

D

• Depression: A mood disorder causing persistent feelings of sadness and loss of interest.
• Dissociative Disorders: Involves a disconnection from thoughts, identity, consciousness, and memory.

E

• Eating Disorders: Includes anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, which affect eating habits and overall health.

G

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder: Excessive worry about various aspects of life, such as work or health.

O

• ObsessiveCompulsive Disorder (OCD): Characterized by unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors (compulsions).

P

• Panic Disorder: Recurrent panic attacks leading to intense fear and physical symptoms like heart palpitations.
• [PostTraumatic Stress Disorder](https://glossary.psywellpath.com/post-traumatic-stress-disorder) (PTSD): Following exposure to a traumatic event, individuals experience flashbacks and severe anxiety.

S

• Schizophrenia: A severe mental disorder affecting thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, often leading to a loss of contact with reality.
• Social Phobia: Intense fear of social situations, fearing judgment or embarrassment.

Real-Life Examples

• Bipolar Disorder: A person may experience weeks of extreme energy and productivity (mania) followed by periods of deep sadness.
• OCD: Someone might wash their hands repeatedly due to overwhelming fear of germs.

Categories of Disorders

The DSM-IV and DSM-IV-TR group these disorders into categories such as:

1. Mood Disorders: Includes depression and bipolar disorder.
2. Anxiety Disorders: Such as phobias and panic disorder.
3. Psychotic Disorders: Including schizophrenia.
4. Personality Disorders: Such as Borderline personality Disorder.

These categories help healthcare providers identify patterns and choose the best treatment plans.

By understanding these disorders, you can gain insight into mental health challenges and the importance of seeking help when needed. Remember, mental health is just as important as physical health!