Psychological disorder

Psychological disorder, also known as a mental disorder, is a pattern of behavioral or mental symptoms that impact multiple areas of life and create distress for the person experiencing these symptoms. These disorders are usually associated with significant distress or disability in social, occupational, or other important activities. An expectable or culturally approved response to a common stressor or loss, such as the death of a loved one, is not a mental disorder. Socially deviant behavior (e.g., political, religious, or sexual) and conflicts that are primarily between the individual and society are not mental disorders unless the deviance or conflict results from a dysfunction in the individual, as described above.

Classification

The classification of psychological disorders is necessary to enable professionals to refer to the same conditions by the same names, and to facilitate communication and research. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) and the International Classification of Diseases (ICD) are the two most widely used classification systems.

Types of Psychological Disorders

There are many different types of psychological disorders, including:

• Anxiety disorder
• Mood disorder
• Psychotic disorder
• Personality disorder
• Eating disorder
• Trauma-related disorder
• Substance abuse disorder

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a psychological disorder is based on a careful interview with a mental health professional, who will ask questions about the person's history, symptoms, and behaviors. The DSM-5 is the most commonly used diagnostic manual in the United States.

Treatment

Treatment for psychological disorders can involve psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of both. The type of treatment will depend on the specific disorder, its severity, and the individual's personal circumstances and preferences.

See also

• Mental health
• Psychiatry
• Psychology
• Psychotherapy

References

Psychological disorder Resources
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