The Impact of Mental Disorders on People’s Lives

Mental disorders can significantly impact a person’s life, both physical and mental. These disorders can affect an individual’s ability to interact in society, rely upon their own psychological strength and live day to day. Mental health disorders are capable of drastically limiting a person’s social functioning as they can often suffer from a host of psychological symptoms including confusion, paranoia and extreme mood shifts. In some cases, the symptoms of mental disorders can be so severe that they require hospitalization. Mental health illness can also force an individual to withdraw from activities and responsibilities, preventing them from joining in conversations, taking part in social events and making positive connections with people.

The impact of mental disorders is often felt more heavily on those who suffer from severe forms of these psychological problems, but the effects can be far-reaching, with those family members, friends, colleagues, and other close contacts suffering an impact from the illness. Many family members are faced with the challenge of helping their loved ones cope with mental health problems. This can stretch the resources and strengths of everyone involved, resulting in tension and potentially strained relationships.

It’s not just the emotional effects that mental disorders have that can cause a strain on an individual’s life. A staggering number of those affected by mental illness are no longer able to work and cannot find employment. On the other hand, sufferers of severe mental illness can often be forced to take long-term medication in order to cope which can sometimes lead to side-effects and other problems.

The social implications of mental illness can be linked to a number of issues that can cause long-term, and often lasting, effects. This problem can include homelessness, substance abuse and a variety of related legal problems. The source of these problems can arise directly from the illness, or from improper management of the symptoms or treatments associated with the disorder.

In addition to the impact of mental illness on the individual, there is a great amount of pressure placed on family and friends to help support and care for the ill. The cost of medications, reduced employment opportunities, and a need for special attention can all have a negative impact on finances. This can lead to extreme financial strain for those providing care, and strain understanding and relationships.

Mental health disorders can cause a great deal of disruption and suffering in the lives of those living with it, as well as those who care for them. It is important for those involved to recognize the impact of mental illness on the person affected, and work together to create a plan for support and treatment that can assist the sufferer in achieving a satisfying and meaningful life. Helping those affected by mental illness is essential to both their and societal wellbeing, and those affected need to be aware of the services and support they are entitled to receive.