Do you think that you or a loved one might be struggling with a mental disability? While having a mental disability can make you feel very isolated, it’s important to know that you’re not alone in your struggles.
In fact, according to the World Health Organization, one in four people are affected by a mental disorder at some point in their lives. What types of mental disabilities do people struggle with?
Check out this guide to learn about the most common mental disabilities.
1. Anxiety
Anxiety is the most common mental health condition in the US. 40 million adults struggle with anxiety each year, which is about 18% of the entire population.
Many people think that having anxiety just means you’re worried. However, an anxiety disorder is much more than that. Those who suffer from anxiety are unable to set aside their worries and restlessness to the point where it impacts their daily lives.
In addition to excessive worrying, anxiety sufferers also experience increased levels of agitation, fatigue, irritability, and muscle tension. They also struggle with sleep and concentration. Luckily, anxiety is a very treatable condition.
If your anxiety is debilitating, you may even qualify for social security disability benefits.
2. Depression
Depression and anxiety often go hand in hand, although you can suffer from one and not the other. Depression affects millions of people worldwide, and contrary to popular belief, it’s about more than just feeling sad.
Depression is a persistent feeling of sadness coupled with a loss of interest in daily activities. Those who are suffering from depression experience sleep issues, irritability, appetite changes, mood swings, and in some cases, suicidal thoughts.
It’s also important to understand that there are many different types of depression. For example, some people experience seasonal depression, in which they experience mood changes during certain seasons (particularly winter). Others experience situational depression, which is a type of depression that’s brought on by a specific event.
And, there is also major depression, which 16 million adults in the US suffer from. Someone who lives with this type of depression experiences symptoms nearly every day.
3. Bipolar Disorder
Bipolar disorder (previously referred to as manic depression) is characterized by periods of intense depression and sadness followed by intense happiness or mania.
The manic phases usually last for a few days to a week, and they’re usually followed by a more extreme bout of depression. During a manic phase, people usually experience racing thoughts, high energy, reduced sleep, increased self-esteem, grandiose thinking, euphoric feelings, and sometimes, self-destructive behavior.
Those who suffer from bipolar often feel like they’re on a rollercoaster of emotions- they’re either their highest high or lowest low. Like anxiety and depression, bipolar disorder is also treatable with the right medication and therapy.
Common Mental Disabilities: Now You Know
Now that you know about the most common mental disabilities, you should have a better understanding of whether or not you or someone you love may be suffering from one. Of course, you’ll need to get formally diagnosed to find out, so it’s best to schedule an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible.
And, for more informative articles like this one, be sure to check out our blog.
