A mental illness or mental disorder is defined as a behavioral or psychological problem that manifests itself frequently and may worsen as the result of external stimuli. Practitioners define mental disorders by classifying them into different categories. Some of the classifications used include personality disorder, substance dependence, mental disorder, and mental retardation. Experts typically use the definitions put forth in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders or DSM-IV.

Mental illness is caused by a number of factors, though experts are uncertain of an exact cause. They have identified some diseases as having a genetic link, meaning that the child of a parent with the disease has a greater chance of developing the disease for themselves. There are also environmental stressors that can cause mental illness, or a combination of environmental and biological factors can be responsible for its development. Other factors that can cause mental illness include traumatic brain injury, social influences, and problems with the neurotransmitters of the brain.

Mental diseases were first found during ancient times, although they were usually referred to as a phobia or hysteria. In the 8^th century, some cultures such as the Muslims began setting up hospitals and treating the disorders as a mental problem. Other cultures viewed those individuals as witches or heretics. In the 17^th and 18^th centuries, those with mental disorders were often sentenced to time in mental asylums. Psychiatry and psychoanalysis began appearing in the 19^th century as these disorders were seen as real medical conditions. By the end of World War II, the first DSM manual had appeared.

Substance abuse is sometimes referred to as a type of mental disorder. It is defined as a pattern of using a substance that leads to a dependency on that substance. The addict will continue to use the substance, regardless of the effects their use has on their own body, and those around them. However, there are some who abuse substances without becoming addicted to them or dependent on them, such as a drinker who drinks to excess several times a month, but doesn’t need to drink every day.

Substance abuse is often related to cultural and societal pressures, especially in younger people. They may feel the need to experiment with drugs and alcohol because of pressure from their peers. Many of the causes of substance abuse relate to environmental factors such as pressure from friends or growing up in a family of abusers.

Those with an addiction and a mental disorder are often treated by working on the addiction first. Until the person is weaned off their substance of choice, it’s nearly impossible to treat the psychological problem. For example, someone taking drugs may forget to use their medication as prescribed or forget to attend therapy sessions. After treating the addiction, the doctor works with the patient to change the pathways of the brain that link the substance abuse with the condition.

Find out more information at:

Drug Abuse and Mental Illness Fast Facts

Mental Illness and Substance Abuse

Dual Diagnosis and Mental Illness

Dual Disorders

Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration

Substance Abuse

About Mental Illness

Metal Health: Types of Mental Illness

Mental Illness Warning Signs

Mental Disorder at Wikipedia

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