What are the symptoms?

Signs and symptoms of mental illness can vary, depending on the particular disorder, circumstances and other factors. Mental illness symptoms can affect emotions, thoughts and behaviours. Examples of signs and symptoms include:

• Feeling sad or down
• Confused thinking or reduced ability to concentrate
• Excessive fears or worries
• Extreme mood changes of highs and lows
• Withdrawal from friends and activities
• Significant tiredness, low energy or problems sleeping
• Detachment from reality (delusions), paranoia or hallucinations
• Inability to cope with daily problems or stress
• Extreme feelings of guilt
• Alcohol or drug abuse
• Major changes in eating habits
• Sex drive changes
• Excessive anger, hostility or violence
• Suicidal thinking

Individuals who have a mental illness don’t necessarily look like they are sick, especially if their illness is mild. Other individuals may show more explicit symptoms such as confusion, agitation, or withdrawal. There are many different mental illnesses, including depression, schizophrenia, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

What causes mental illness?

Mental illnesses, in general, are thought to be caused by a variety of genetic and environmental factors:

Inherited traits: Mental illness is more common in people whose biological (blood) relatives also have a mental illness. Certain genes may increase your risk of developing a mental illness, and your life situation may trigger the actual mental illness.

Environmental exposures before birth: Exposure to viruses, toxins, alcohol or drugs while in the womb can sometimes be linked to mental illness.

Negative life experiences: Situations in your life, such as the loss of a loved one, financial problems and high stress, can play a role in triggering mental illness.

Brain chemistry: Biochemical changes in the brain are thought to affect mood and other aspects of mental health. Naturally occurring brain chemicals called neurotransmitters play a role in some mental illnesses.

What is the available treatment?

Treatment for mental illness is available and is very effective when given as advised. Chances of a complete recovery and leading a normal life is very high in about 70-80% of patient seeking treatment. The duration of treatment varies from person to person and depends on the severity of the illness. Medication is needed during treatment.

What are the side effects of the medication?

Usually the side effects if any are reversible but it’s always advisable to discuss all possible side effects at the time of starting medicines.

Can mental illness be prevented?

There's no sure way to prevent mental illness. However, if you do have a mental illness, taking steps to control stress, to increase your resilience and to boost low self-esteem may help keep your symptoms under control. Follow these steps:

Pay attention to warning signs: Work with your doctor or therapist to learn what might trigger your symptoms. Consider involving family members or friends in watching for warning signs. Get routine medical care. Don't neglect checkups or skip visits to your family doctor, especially if you aren't feeling well.

Get help when you need it: Mental health conditions can be harder to treat if you wait until symptoms get bad. Long-term maintenance treatment also may help prevent a relapse of symptoms.

Take good care of yourself: Sufficient sleep, healthy eating and regular physical activity are important. Try to maintain a regular schedule.