Mental illness

A mental illness is a disorder of the brain that results in a disruption in a person's thinking, feeling, moods, and ability to relate to others. Mental illness is distinct from the legal concepts of sanity and insanity.

Related Topics:
Thinking - Feeling - Mood - Ability to relate to others - Sanity - Insanity

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Mental health, mental hygiene, behavioral health, and mental wellness are all terms used to describe the state or absence of mental illness.

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Most psychologists attribute mental illness to organic/neurochemical causes that can be treated with psychiatric medication, psychotherapy, lifestyle adjustments and other supportive measures; however, many of the causes of mental illness are still unknown. The battle between "nature" and "nurture" goes on as it has for years. Neuroscience and genetics are still unable to fully explain the effects of genetic inheritance and developmental environment.

Related Topics:
Psychiatric medication - Psychotherapy

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Advocacy organizations have been trying to change the common perception of psychiatric disorders, which are frequently seen as signs of personal weakness and something to be ashamed of. Advocacy organizations instead liken psychiatric disorders to physical diseases such as measles.

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