Mental distress refers to unpleasant emotions such as anxiety and depression, which may or may not be associated with a mental illness. Healthcare professionals and patients use the term variably, and it is important to seek treatment for signs of mental illness. Treatment can include therapy, medications, and lifestyle adjustments. Some mental disorders may have a genetic component, but it is important to be aware that there are many approaches to treatment.
Mental distress refers to the experience of unpleasant emotions such as anxiety and depression, which may be associated with an active mental illness such as PTSD, although not necessarily. This term is used variably throughout the world by healthcare professionals and patients. It is important to be aware of the disparity in how the term is used, as there can be some confusion as to what is meant by ‘mental illness’. Patients experiencing signs of mental illness should seek treatment, as it may be possible to address them and increase patient comfort.
Some healthcare professionals use this term when a patient has signs of emotional disturbance but does not meet the criteria for a specific mental health diagnosis. This can be especially common in the wake of a traumatic event such as the loss of a job, the death of a family member, or the experience of a fight. The patient may feel depressed or fatigued, may experience outbursts of anger, and may exhibit other symptoms of deranged mental health. This form of mental distress may be treatable with rest and some therapy to recover from the trauma.
Other healthcare professionals and patients use this term in preference to “mental illness” and will refer to a patient with a specific diagnosis as mentally challenged. Patients with conditions such as schizophrenia, anxiety disorder, and bipolar disorder often develop distressing symptoms that can wax and wane over time. Treatment can resolve them, but these patients may be more susceptible to stress reactions when important events occur. These patients may find this term more appropriate to describe their experiences.
If a person is experiencing mental distress, evaluation and treatment are very important. A doctor may meet with the patient to discuss the situation and symptoms. Determining a diagnosis, if the patient has one, is an important part of treatment. Treatments can vary based on the diagnosis, and it is vital to ensure that the patient receives adequate care. This can include therapy, medications, and lifestyle adjustments such as coping skills training.
Some mental disorders may have a genetic component. In a family with a history of certain mental illnesses, other family members may be more at risk. In other cases, it appears to be random and has no specific genetic link or environmental trigger. Mental health conditions are not the patient’s fault and it is important to be aware that there are many approaches to treatment. If a patient does not respond well to a treatment, it does not necessarily mean that he is not curable.
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