Mental Illness

Mental illness involves dysfunctional emotions, behaviours or thoughts. In my opinion, there are several times when our thoughts and emotions are out of control, which is normal, given the circumstances. However, when such changes take a toll on a person’s daily routine, one can say it is a mental illness. The effects can be long-lasting or temporary.

Considerations before meeting a mental health expert

Before meeting a psychiatrist or a Psychologist who is the right person to diagnose you, here are some points which you can consider and go through to consider before meeting with a mental health expert.

• Mental illnesses are not easy to be diagnosed and can be very confusing to nail down.
• Differentiating normal bereavement from depression is a difficult task for people who have lost their loved ones.
• Just because someone has a worrisome nature due to stress at work which is very common, we cannot tag them to be having an anxiety disorder.
• The line between having certain personality traits (maintaining cleanliness, and orderliness) and having a personality disorder (OCD) can be blurry.

Thus, mental health and mental illness can be best considered as being on a continuum. Any differentiating point is usually based on the following.

• How severe the symptoms are?
• How long do the symptoms last?
• How much do the symptoms affect daily life?

Identifying Mental Illness in Loved Ones

Here are some points which can help you understand your loved ones, if they are suffering from any mental illness; however, they cannot be used as a diagnostic criterion. These can help you reassure that there might be a good reason to seek more information with a mental health expert about your concerns.

• Changes in sleep patterns: If there are sudden changes in sleep patterns, it could indicate a substance use disorder. Sleeping too much or too less can be considered an indication of anxiety disorder or sleep disorder. Sudden insomnia is also to be considered.
• Appetite changes: Dramatic appetite changes or decline in personal care.
• Mood changes: Rapid or sudden shifts in emotions. Feeling depressed in the morning after waking up, greater irritability, and feeling excessively touchy.
• Withdrawal: Recent incidences of social withdrawal and loss of interest in routine activities which were enjoyed previously.
• A sudden drop in functioning: An unusual change in functioning at school, work or social activities. Difficulty in performing regular and familiar tasks.
• Problems with cognition: Problem with concentration, memory or logical thinking which is very difficult to relate.
• Feeling disconnected: A strange feeling of being disconnected from oneself. Sense of unreality.
• Illogical thinking: Exaggerated beliefs about religion, illogical or magical thinking typical of childhood in adulthood.
• Nervousness: Constant nervous feeling and suspiciousness.

Note:

One or two of these symptoms alone can’t predict a mental illness but may indicate a need for further evaluation. If a person is experiencing several symptoms at one time and the symptoms are causing serious problems in the ability to study, work or relate to others, he/she should be seen by a physician or mental health professional. People with suicidal thoughts or intent, or thoughts of harming others, need immediate attention.

Conclusion

Mental illness can affect anyone at any point in time. However, it can be difficult to diagnose, and it is essential to seek professional help before jumping to conclusions. Understanding the symptoms and changes in behaviour, such as changes in sleep patterns, appetite, mood, withdrawal, cognitive problems, feeling disconnected, illogical thinking, and nervousness, can help identify a possible mental illness. It is important to note that having one or two of these symptoms alone cannot predict a mental illness, but experiencing several symptoms at once can be a cause for concern. Seeking medical attention can help individuals deal with the issue and get back to leading a healthy life.

Dr. Shachi Patel

Dr Shachi Patel is a highly qualified and experienced Consultant Neuropsychologist. Neuropsychologists are trained in both psychology and neuroscience and specialize in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of brain-based disorders, including cognitive, behavioral, and emotional problems.

As a neuropsychologist, Dr Shachi Patell brings a unique perspective to the field of mental health, combining her expertise in psychology and neuroscience to provide a comprehensive approach to treatment. The Mind Clinic-India, which she founded, is dedicated to providing patients with the highest standard of care, using a holistic brain-body approach to diagnose and treat a wide range of emotional, behavioral, and cognitive problems.

Dr. Shachi Patel's commitment to developing strong relationships with her patients and their families through empathetic communication, a respectful attitude, and a commitment to confidentiality of information at all times is a testament to her dedication to her patients' well-being. She is passionate about helping her patients achieve optimal mental health and is highly regarded for her contributions to the field of neuropsychology in India.